Follis of Anastasios I, Constantinople c. 498 - 518

Editor: Here we have a Follis of Anastasios I from Constantinople. It's intriguing to consider how this small object once represented power and value. What do you see in this piece beyond its monetary function? Curator: Look closely at the symbols: the emperor’s portrait, the large 'M' denoting its value, the stars… These weren't just about currency; they were carefully chosen images designed to project authority and divine favor. This imagery aimed to ensure cultural continuity through visual symbols. Editor: So, the coin is not just money; it’s a statement? Curator: Precisely. Coins like these were some of the earliest forms of mass communication. Examining these symbols offers a glimpse into the emperor's self-image, and how he wished to be seen by his subjects. Editor: It’s fascinating how much meaning can be packed into such a small space. Curator: Indeed, visual language shaped how people understood their world.