Follis of Justinian II and Sophia c. 7th century

Curator: This is a Follis of Justinian II and Sophia. It's a copper-alloy coin currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It looks ancient and worn, but carries a sense of weight, not just physical, but of history. The green corrosion spots hint at its age and journey through time. Curator: Absolutely. Coins like this were more than just currency; they were powerful tools of imperial propaganda and self-representation. Examining the imagery gives insights into the emperor's desired public image. Editor: What strikes me is the depiction of Sophia; her inclusion highlights a narrative of shared power, especially considering the complex gender politics of the Byzantine era. What does this imagery communicate about her role? Curator: That's a key question. Officially, it projects an image of stability and joint rule. But we also have to consider how the production and distribution of such images reinforced hierarchical structures. Editor: Right, it also served to legitimize Justinian's rule. Though worn, it still speaks volumes about power, representation, and the enduring complexities of history. Curator: Indeed, a small object holding such vast historical and political weight.