Follis of Justinian I, Rome c. 538 - 544

Curator: The Follis of Justinian I, a humble coin, yet a powerful artifact minted under his reign, now residing at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It looks so small, almost insignificant, yet it speaks volumes of a long-gone era. I’m immediately struck by the sheer wear and tear on it. Curator: Indeed, the coin's worn surface is a testament to its extensive use and circulation within the Byzantine empire. Notice the material – copper, a common metal used for everyday transactions. Editor: A deliberate choice reflecting the economic landscape, and the distribution of wealth, and the power dynamics of the time. Money talks even then! Curator: Precisely! This coin embodies imperial authority—Justinian's portrait and the mint mark. These elements were carefully managed to convey political messages. Editor: In that light, it’s more than just currency. It’s propaganda, a physical symbol of power that touched countless hands. Quite remarkable. Curator: Seeing the coin up close invites reflection on the labor involved and the very materiality of state power, even today. Editor: A reminder that art and politics are intertwined, shaping how history remembers and values the material traces of civilizations.