Asper of John II of Trebizond c. 1280 - 1297

Editor: Here we have the "Asper of John II of Trebizond," a small coin residing at the Harvard Art Museums. It's incredibly worn, but I'm struck by how it still manages to feel significant. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Consider how potent these images were when first minted. The ruler's image, the cross, were not just symbols of power and faith, but tangible, everyday affirmations of a specific cultural order. How might such potent symbols shape personal identity and societal values? Editor: So, it’s like a constant, pocket-sized reminder? Curator: Exactly. The coin circulated constantly, reinforcing collective memory. Over time, the symbols became deeply ingrained, shaping not only economic but also spiritual and political life. It's a tiny object, yet a powerful carrier of meaning. Editor: I never thought of it that way. It's amazing how much history can be held in something so small. Curator: Indeed. Each coin whispers stories of cultural continuity and enduring symbolism.