Coin of Justin II c. 567 - 568

Editor: This is a coin of Justin II, somewhere around 16 grams in weight. It's amazing how much history can be held in something so small. What can this coin tell us about its time? Curator: Coins like this one were vital instruments of imperial power. They weren't just currency, but also propaganda. The image of Justin II helped solidify his rule, reinforcing his authority across the Byzantine empire. Editor: So, it's like a mini-billboard? Curator: Exactly! The coin’s widespread circulation meant the emperor’s image and message were constantly visible, shaping public perception and legitimizing his reign. The coin's imagery and its distribution are all part of a carefully constructed political narrative. Editor: I hadn't thought of it that way. It’s amazing how much a simple coin can reveal about the socio-political landscape of the time. Curator: Indeed. It is a tangible link to the past, and a reminder of how power and imagery intersect.