Coin of Justinian I c. 544 - 545

Editor: Here we have a coin of Justinian I. It’s small, but I see so much detail. What symbols stand out to you the most? Curator: The cross, repeated on either side, and even embedded into Justinian’s crown, speaks volumes. It signifies not only religious authority, but the merging of spiritual and temporal power, a powerful symbol during his reign. Editor: So the coin wasn't just currency, but also propaganda? Curator: Precisely! It’s a potent reminder of how images carry complex cultural weight far beyond their surface. Editor: It's fascinating to consider how a small coin could convey such grand ideas of power. Curator: Indeed, and its enduring presence in museums today keeps these ideas alive.