Coin of Justinian I c. 546 - 547

Curator: This is a bronze coin issued during the reign of Justinian I, weighing nearly 18 grams. Editor: It looks heavy, and worn. I am curious, what narratives of power are imprinted in its physical form? Curator: The coin’s design and production, including the inscription and imperial portrait, were tightly controlled to project imperial authority. It circulated widely, touching countless hands. Editor: And each of those hands, each transaction, each moment in circulation, adds to its story. Beyond simply projecting power, it reflects the actual, lived economic realities of the time. Curator: Precisely. It represents both the aspirations of an empire and the everyday material conditions of its subjects. Editor: The coin itself becomes a tangible link to a complex web of social and economic relations. It makes you wonder, who minted it and how did its value affect different social strata? Curator: Indeed, food for thought regarding labor, materiality and even consumption! Editor: And a perfect entry point into the historical and social contexts surrounding Justinian's reign.