Follis of Constantine I, Nicomedia c. 316

Editor: So, this is a Follis of Constantine I, from Nicomedia. What strikes me is how a simple coin can carry such weight in understanding power and representation. What do you see in this piece, considering its place in history? Curator: This coin isn't just currency; it's a carefully crafted piece of propaganda. Consider how Constantine used his image to legitimize his rule, especially after a period of civil war. How does the portrayal of power on this coin reflect or challenge existing social structures? Editor: I see it as a top-down approach to solidify power. Curator: Exactly. And what does that say about the lived experiences of those under his rule, and the narratives that were deemed worthy of preservation? Coins were a statement. Editor: That's a perspective I hadn't fully considered. It's more than just an artifact; it's a tool of social and political messaging. Curator: Precisely. It prompts us to critically analyze the narratives of power and their impact on society.