Anonymous Follis c. 1042 - 1050

Editor: This is an anonymous follis, a coin, housed at the Harvard Art Museums. I'm struck by how worn it looks. What does it tell us about its history? Curator: A materialist perspective centers on the coin's production. Consider the labor involved in mining, smelting, and striking. The coin's material and design served as a means of control; how does its circulation reflect economic power? Editor: That's interesting. I hadn't thought about the labor aspect so directly. So, the wear and tear are evidence of its use as a tool? Curator: Precisely. Consumption is key. Each transaction marks its journey through different hands. The debasement of the metal, if any, would also be telling. Editor: I see, it's like tracing a story of material and social conditions. Thanks!