Histamenon of Constantine X Ducas, Constantinople c. 11th century

Curator: It has such a worn and weathered quality; it makes me wonder about the hands it passed through. Editor: This is the Histamenon of Constantine X Ducas, a Byzantine coin held in the Harvard Art Museums. It is made of gold and weighs just 4.37 grams. Curator: Given that it’s a coin, I’m drawn to think about its circulation and what that implies for Byzantium’s economic and political power. Currency isn't just about trade, is it? Editor: Absolutely. The imagery chosen for coins always reflects the dominant ideologies. Here, the depiction of Christ and Constantine himself are powerful statements of authority and divine sanction. Curator: Did the act of portraying the emperor alongside religious icons affect the perception of his authority? Editor: It certainly blurred the lines between secular and divine power, reinforcing his legitimacy but also making him a subject of potential critique if his actions didn't align with religious expectations. Curator: Looking at it now, it’s a reminder of the complex interplay between economics, power, and belief. Editor: It shows how objects like this coin can illuminate broader social and political landscapes.