Coin of John II c. 12th century

Editor: Here we have a coin of John II. Given its aged condition and the fact that it is a coin, it's fascinating to consider the labor and resources that went into its production and circulation. What can you tell us about this? Curator: I think we must examine the coin less for its artistic merit and more for its context as a tool of power. Consider the mining, the metallurgy, the striking—all immense processes. Editor: So, the coin is less about art and more about what it represents regarding power and production? Curator: Precisely. What does it tell us about the social structures and economic systems that enabled its creation and use? Editor: That’s interesting to consider. I never thought of it in that way. Thank you. Curator: My pleasure.