Anonymous Follis c. 1065 - 1070

Curator: Here we have an anonymous follis, housed at the Harvard Art Museums. The humble weight is listed at 11.8 grams. Editor: Immediately, I'm struck by how worn the imagery is, yet somehow still communicative. Like a whispered secret, almost. Curator: Absolutely. These coins acted as visual touchstones, circulating images of rulers and religious figures, solidifying power through repetition and recognition. Editor: The halo really pops despite the wear and tear. It's interesting how such a simple circle can carry so much spiritual weight. Curator: The halo is a powerful symbol of divine grace, adapted in various cultures throughout history. It represents enlightenment, sanctity, and the spiritual aura surrounding a figure. Editor: It really makes you think about all the hands this little coin has passed through, all the stories it could tell... Curator: Indeed. A small object, but a powerful window into the past. Editor: It's a reminder that even the smallest things can carry immense cultural significance.