Coin of Tiberius II c. 579

Curator: This artifact is a coin of Tiberius II, currently residing in the Harvard Art Museums, weighing just over 17 grams. Editor: Immediately, I'm struck by the stark contrast – the flat, almost worn-down quality of the relief against the coin's crude, aged form. Curator: Indeed. Its materiality speaks volumes about the economic systems and power structures during Tiberius II's reign, revealing how images and symbols circulated. Editor: The portrait, though damaged, maintains a formality. I'm curious about the geometric balance achieved through the inscriptions surrounding the central image. Curator: Absolutely. Consider the labor involved in its production – each strike representing hours of work, contributing to the wider Byzantine economy. Editor: Considering the condition, it's a beautiful example of simple design with strong visual impact. Curator: Yes, this piece offers an accessible entry into understanding the material conditions of a distant era. Editor: For me, it’s a fascinating example of design speaking across centuries.