Semissis of Anastasios I c. 491 - 498

Curator: Here we have a Semissis, a small gold coin, attributed to Anastasios I. Editor: It looks almost weightless, fragile, like a sunbeam captured in metal. Curator: Indeed. The imagery is fascinating. On one side, we see a clear depiction of Anastasios himself. Editor: And the other side? A seated figure with what looks like a shield. Maybe a symbol of the empire’s strength? Curator: It's likely Victory, a very common symbol of power and divine favor in that era. Coins like these were not just currency, but also potent symbols of imperial authority. Editor: It's funny how something so small could carry such a large message. You almost forget it bought someone a loaf of bread once. Curator: Absolutely! Visual language and ideology, all wrapped up in a tiny, portable package. Editor: Looking at this, I’m reminded that even the smallest object can echo with the voices of history.