Follis of Anastasios I c. 498 - 518

Curator: The weight of this Follis of Anastasios I, nearly 10 grams, hints at an empire's grasp. What strikes you first? Editor: The contrast, ironically. Even in this state of age, the symbols are so clearly defined against a pitted surface; the details are quite striking. Curator: Indeed. Coins like this, minted under Anastasios around the 5th century, weren't just currency. They represented Byzantine power, influencing economic structures and social hierarchies. The images conveyed political messaging. Editor: And that messaging relies heavily on the symbolic language. The emperor’s profile, the cross, the prominent "M"... Each element carefully considered to convey authority and stability. Curator: Absolutely. This wasn’t just about facilitating trade, it was about shaping perceptions of imperial rule. Even today, these objects tell us about the relationship between power and representation. Editor: I agree, and looking at how these formal elements intersect with its history really helps to focus my understanding of the piece. Curator: I hadn't thought of it that way; food for thought.