Coin of Justinian I c. 561 - 562

Editor: Here we have a "Coin of Justinian I," made by Justinian himself. It feels like a tangible link to the past, worn smooth by time. What story do you think it whispers to us? Curator: Well, I hear whispers of power, of course, but also of faith. The figure on one side, likely Justinian, exudes imperial authority. But notice the cross—it’s a symbol of his deep religious conviction. It's a reminder that even emperors saw themselves as instruments of a higher power. Editor: So, it's not just about earthly rule? Curator: Not at all! It's about divine mandate. And, dare I say, the weight of responsibility that comes with believing you're doing God's work. It makes me wonder, doesn’t it, about the burdens such conviction places on a person? Editor: It definitely adds a new layer to how I see historical figures. Curator: Exactly! We're looking at power, faith, and the human condition—all compressed into a tiny coin.