Decanummium of Justinian I, Kyzikos 547 - 548

Editor: Here we have a bronze Decanummium of Justinian I from Kyzikos. It looks quite worn, but I'm curious about its cultural significance. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: This coin, though small, speaks volumes about the Byzantine empire under Justinian. The image on the coin was carefully controlled. What message do you think Justinian wanted to convey through something as common as currency? Editor: Perhaps, power and stability? Coins are used by many people. Curator: Exactly. Distributing these coins, stamped with imperial imagery, extended Justinian's authority into everyday life. Consider how this small object played a role in legitimizing his rule. Editor: So, even an object as humble as a coin can be a powerful form of propaganda. Curator: Precisely. It highlights how art, even in its most functional forms, reflects the socio-political landscape of its time.