Large Follis of Anastasios I, Constantinople c. 498 - 518

Curator: Here we have a Large Follis of Anastasios I, from Constantinople. It weighs about 18.6 grams. Editor: It looks pretty worn, a bit rough around the edges, yet I still feel the weight of history in it. Curator: Exactly. Consider the artistry in this tiny object; one side bears a profile of Anastasios himself. Editor: And the other side features a large "M," I assume that signifies its monetary value back in the day? The deliberate placement of stars adds a touch of flair. Curator: Precisely, It is a window into the economic and artistic sensibilities of its time. You can almost feel the hands that held it, can’t you? Editor: Yes, its simplicity is deceiving; the more you look, the more you discover.