Half Follis of Anastasius, Constantinople c. 498 - 518

Editor: Here we have a Half Follis of Anastasius from Constantinople. It’s a humble artifact, really, but the wear and tear speak volumes. What do you make of its symbolic weight? Curator: The cross, prominently displayed, anchors the coin in its Christian context, a visual declaration of faith and imperial authority. The letters around the emperor's portrait are abbreviations, potent symbols of power and legitimacy. Editor: So, the symbols were tools for communicating specific ideas? Curator: Precisely. Consider how the choice of imagery solidified Anastasius's reign and connected him to a larger historical and spiritual narrative. What do you think that narrative was? Editor: One of enduring power. I see how the symbols acted as a bridge to his people. Curator: Indeed. The symbols tell a story that transcends the object's material value.