Copper Follis or Tornese of John VII 1390

Curator: Here we have a Copper Follis, sometimes called a Tornese, bearing the mark of John VII. Editor: It’s tiny, and the dark patina makes it hard to decipher, but there’s something weighty about this object. It feels symbolic, even powerful. Curator: Coins such as these tell us about the economic and political landscape. Who controlled the mint? What messages did they want to convey? Currency was propaganda. Editor: Absolutely. And this one hints at identity, power structures, and the everyday struggles of its time. Money is never just money; it signifies so much more. It's a potent artifact. Curator: Indeed. Examining its distribution and circulation offers insights into trade routes and the influence of John VII’s reign. Editor: Thinking about who touched it, where it traveled, makes it incredibly evocative. It’s history condensed into a small, metallic form.