Manuel I Komnenos (28 November 1118 – 24 September 1180) was the Byzantine emperor who ruled from 1143 to 1180, presiding over the final phase of the Komnenian Restoration — a period of renewed Byzantine military, economic, and cultural strength 
 
Manuel was the fourth son of John II Komnenos and Irene of Hungary. He became emperor after his father’s death in 1143, following a brief struggle with his elder brother Isaac World History Encyclopedia. Known for his charm, athleticism, and love of Western customs, he transformed the austere court of his father into a vibrant, festive environment 
 
Manuel is remembered as a charismatic, skilled diplomat, and capable soldier, though his overreach strained Byzantine resourcesHe inspired loyalty among his subjects and was celebrated in panegyrics, earning the epithet Megas (“the Great”) Hellenica World. Western chroniclers like William of Tyre and Robert of Clari praised his generosity and leadership Hellenica World. Modern historians debate whether his policies were misguided imperialism or a pragmatic response to shifting power balances .
The cpin above is an ES Apron Trachy cup coin.