Coin of Justinian I c. 541 - 542

Editor: This is a coin of Justinian I, a copper coin from the Byzantine Empire. It’s weighty and shows signs of wear, which makes me wonder about its journey. What do you see in this artifact? Curator: This coin isn't just currency; it’s a carefully crafted message. The image of Justinian and the Chi-Rho symbol assert imperial power and divine legitimacy, concepts deeply intertwined in Byzantine society. Consider how this intertwining of power and religion affected everyday life. Editor: So, it's propaganda as well as money? Curator: Precisely! It's a tactile reminder of the emperor's presence and the pervasive influence of the Church. It prompts us to question how such symbols shaped identity and social order. Editor: That's a powerful thought - currency as a shaper of identity. Curator: Indeed. And understanding that dynamic is key to unlocking the complexities of Byzantine culture.