Decanummium of Justin II, Constantinople c. 565 - 578

Editor: This is a Decanummium of Justin II from Constantinople. It’s incredible to consider something this small once held so much value and power. What can you tell me about its place in history? Curator: Coins like this were powerful tools of propaganda and statecraft. They circulated widely, embedding the emperor's image and symbols of authority within everyday life. How do you think the wear and tear on this coin affects its message today? Editor: It makes it feel more real, more tangible. It’s like holding a piece of the past, but also seeing the effects of time and use on that past. Curator: Precisely. This Decanummium is not just currency; it's a miniature monument that speaks volumes about the political and social landscape of its time, revealing how power intersects with the lives of ordinary people. Editor: I never thought of it that way before! Thanks for helping me consider its history. Curator: My pleasure! Thinking about the layers of history enriches our understanding of art.