Tremissis of Theodosius II, Constantinople 430 - 440

Editor: Here we have a gold Tremissis of Theodosius II from Constantinople. It looks so small, but these two sides tell a story. What's your take on its significance? Curator: This tiny coin embodies enormous power dynamics. Consider its materiality – gold, inherently valuable, controlled by the emperor. The images, though small, project authority and divine right. How does this coin participate in a broader system of control and propaganda? Editor: So, it's less about the monetary value and more about what it represents? Curator: Exactly. It's a tool to circulate an image of power, reinforcing the emperor's position within a complex social hierarchy. This object invites us to consider the intertwined nature of art, power, and identity. Editor: It’s fascinating how such a small thing can carry so much weight. I’ll definitely look at coins differently from now on. Curator: And hopefully see how even the smallest artifact can reflect broader historical currents.