Stavraton of John V c. 1341 - 1391

Editor: Here we have the Stavraton of John V, of undetermined date, made by John V, residing at the Harvard Art Museums. Given its size, what role did it play in society at the time? Curator: This small coin gives us insight into the economic and political landscape of the Byzantine Empire under John V. The imagery, though worn, likely reinforced his authority. Do you think its value was more symbolic or monetary? Editor: I hadn’t thought of it that way; it’s interesting to think about how something so small could hold so much power. Thanks for your perspective! Curator: Indeed. Examining art this way allows us to appreciate art beyond aesthetics.