Solidus of Honorius, Ravenna c. 402 - 406

Editor: This is a gold Solidus of Honorius, from Ravenna. It's fascinating how a small coin can tell such a grand story. What underlying narratives do you see embedded in this object? Curator: This coin speaks volumes about power, legitimacy, and the construction of identity in late antiquity. The very act of minting coins was a declaration of sovereignty. How do you think Honorius used his image to project authority amidst the crumbling Roman Empire? Editor: I suppose by associating himself with traditional symbols of Roman power, like the emperor’s portrait. Curator: Precisely. But consider also the context. Ravenna, as the capital, became a melting pot of cultures. Honorius's portrayal is not just about Roman continuity; it is about adapting to a changing world. What does it mean to claim power when the foundations are shifting? Editor: It’s a survival strategy, maybe? Projecting strength even when vulnerable. This coin is not just currency, it’s propaganda. Curator: Indeed. And a potent reminder that even the smallest objects can carry the weight of history and ideology.