Civilization: Byzantine Empire
Ruler: Alexios III Angelos
Mint: Constantinople
Year: 1195 - 1203 AD
Composition: Electrum
Denomination: Trachy
Diameter: 27.4mm
Weight: 2.71g
Reference: SB 2009

Obverse
Christ enthroned facing, holding book of gospels and raising right hand, IC XC at upper left and right, sometimes decoration comprising of dots, stars and short lines above the arms of the throne

Reverse
Alexios and St. Constantine, standing facing, each bearded, crowned, wearing divitision and loros, each holding cross-tipped sceptre and holding labarum (dot in banner) between them

Alexios III Angelos reigned as Byzantine Emperor from 1195 to 1203, following the deposition of his brother, Isaac II Angelos. His rule was characterized by significant challenges, including internal strife, military defeats, and the growing threat of the Fourth Crusade. 

Initially, Alexios III struggled to maintain stability in the empire, facing opposition from various factions, including nobles and former supporters of his brother. His reign saw a decline in imperial authority and financial resources, leading to widespread corruption and mismanagement within the government. The empire's military was weakened by losses against external threats, particularly the Normans and the rising power of the Seljuk Turks.

One of the most significant events during Alexios III's reign was the arrival of the Fourth Crusade, which aimed to recapture Jerusalem but ultimately turned its attention to Constantinople. In 1203, Alexios III fled the city amid the chaos and unrest caused by the crusaders’ presence. His departure allowed for the restoration of Isaac II Angelos, but the situation quickly deteriorated, culminating in the sack of Constantinople in 1204.

Alexios III’s reign is often viewed as a period of decline for the Byzantine Empire, marked by political instability, military failures, and the eventual disintegration of the empire following the Fourth Crusade. He died in exile, leaving behind a legacy of turmoil and lost territories.