Follis of Herakleios, Constantinople 613 - 616

Editor: This Follis of Herakleios, a coin, seems so small, yet it has so much detail. What kind of messages were these coins meant to convey? Curator: Coins like this weren't just currency; they were powerful tools of propaganda. Consider the iconography – the figures, symbols, and inscriptions all broadcast a message about the ruler's power, legitimacy, and religious affiliation. Editor: So, the imagery wasn't just decorative? Curator: Not at all. The choice of imagery, the style in which it was rendered, and even the material of the coin itself were carefully considered to project a specific image of authority and cultural values to the public. Think about what those choices tell us about the priorities of the ruling powers. Editor: I never thought about coins that way before! It shows how even small, everyday objects can be loaded with political and cultural significance. Curator: Exactly! And studying these objects gives us a fascinating glimpse into the social and political landscape of the time.