Follis of Justinian I, Kyzikos 542 - 543

Curator: Here we have a Follis of Justinian I, minted in Kyzikos. It's a copper coin, dating back to his reign. Editor: It's a fascinating piece, worn and almost otherworldly, the verdigris adding a patina of age and mystery. Curator: Indeed. As currency, its production speaks volumes about the economic structures of the Byzantine empire. Consider the labor, the mining, the minting process itself. Editor: Absolutely, and observe the imagery. The imperial portrait and the large "M" – a clear symbol of value, but also of power and imperial authority. Curator: The coin’s material, though humble, was vital. Bronze was the workhorse of daily transactions, reaching a wide spectrum of Byzantine society. Editor: And even now, that "M" resonates with a sort of archetypal authority. It's a potent symbol that still speaks, centuries later. Curator: A tangible connection to the Byzantine world, reflecting economic forces and labor practices. Editor: It really does make you ponder the enduring nature of symbols and their ability to carry weight across time. Curator: A powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of material culture and historical narratives. Editor: A fascinating glimpse into the past, both visually and conceptually.