Coin of Justinian I c. 539 - 540

Curator: This is a bronze coin, issued during the reign of Justinian I. It's a weighty piece, over 21 grams, and we believe it's part of the Harvard Art Museums collection. Editor: It feels...severe. The portrait is stern, and the overall impression is one of power and authority. Look at the details embedded in the metal! Curator: Absolutely. The coin speaks volumes about Justinian's ambition to revive the Roman Empire, visually linking himself to past emperors. It served as propaganda, projecting stability and divine right to rule. Editor: See how the lines create a sense of depth, particularly in the drapery of Justinian's robes. And the use of symbols—crosses and inscriptions—seems very deliberate. Curator: Indeed. Each element reinforced the emperor's image and communicated specific messages to the populace. The weight, size, and material all contributed to the impact of the message. Editor: I find it fascinating how something so small can evoke such a monumental sense of history. Curator: A single coin offers a window into a whole world of political and cultural power.