Coin of Manuel I c. 12th century

Curator: Here we have a "Coin of Manuel I" from the Harvard Art Museums, attributed to Manuel I. Editor: It appears quite humble, even worn, yet there’s an undeniable power radiating from these figures. Curator: Indeed. Consider the imagery—rulers depicted holding symbols of power and spiritual authority. This was not simply currency; it was a constant visual reminder of the emperor's divinely sanctioned role. Editor: And the weight of that role, visually impressed upon a coin circulating among the people, is a potent form of propaganda, reinforcing hierarchical structures. Curator: Absolutely, and these images endure, carrying the echoes of an empire's beliefs and ambitions across time. Editor: A tangible, pocket-sized piece of political strategy. Thinking about it, that’s some weight for a coin of 4.78 grams to carry.