Coin of Phokas c. 603 - 607

Editor: Here we have the Coin of Phokas, created by Phokas. It’s currently located at the Harvard Art Museums. I'm struck by how something so small could wield so much power. What can you tell us about this piece? Curator: This coin served as propaganda, circulating Phokas's image and authority throughout the Byzantine Empire. It was an attempt to legitimize his reign, which began with the violent overthrow of Emperor Maurice. Editor: So, it's more than just currency. It's a statement. Curator: Precisely. The very act of minting this coin reinforces his control and the iconography serves to secure his place in the sociopolitical hierarchy. Editor: That adds a completely new layer to how I view this coin. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. Considering the political impact helps to put the imagery into context.