AVTOKPATOPEC RWMAIWN, Michael, unbearded, on left, being crowned by Andronicus, bearded, on right, both standing facing, and each holding cross-headed sceptre and akakia // Large flower or six-pointed star. 22mmx15mm, 1.28 grams. Thessalonica mint. SB 2457.

The Palaiologos dynasty was the final ruling dynasty of the Byzantine Empire, governing from 1261 until the fall of Constantinople in 1453. Founded by Michael VIII Palaiologos after the recovery of Constantinople from the Latin Empire, the dynasty presided over a cultural and artistic revival known as the Palaeologan Renaissance. Despite these achievements, the empire steadily declined due to civil wars, economic difficulties, and the advance of the Ottoman Turks. The dynasty ended with the death of Constantine XI Palaiologos during the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453.