Solidus of Justin I c. 519 - 527

Editor: Here we have the Solidus of Justin I from the Harvard Art Museums. It’s a tiny gold coin. I notice there are images on both sides. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I see a deliberate layering of power and divinity. The Emperor's portrait, juxtaposed with Victory, tells a carefully constructed narrative of legitimacy and divine favor. Consider how gold itself operates as a symbol. Editor: Gold as a symbol of wealth and power! The association of that material with the ruler and Victory really drives that home. Thanks for your insights! Curator: Indeed. Symbols are powerful artifacts. They are our cultural memory.