Half-Stavraton of John VII 1390

Editor: This is a half-Stavraton, a coin made by John VII. It's incredibly small and worn. What can you tell me about its significance? Curator: Well, consider the power dynamics embedded in this tiny object. Currency is not just a medium of exchange, but a declaration of sovereignty. Who gets to control the imagery? Editor: So, the symbols on the coin were carefully chosen? Curator: Absolutely. The imagery would have resonated with the public of the time. It's about legitimacy, about projecting power. Even its material speaks to the political landscape. Editor: I never thought about it that way; it’s more than just money. Curator: Exactly! Understanding the social function of art, even something as small as this, is key to understanding its history.