Coin of Justinian I c. 529 - 533

Editor: Here we have a copper coin of Justinian I, part of the Harvard Art Museums collection. It looks quite worn, almost like it's been through a lot. What do you see in this piece? Curator: This coin isn't just currency; it's a statement of imperial power. Consider how Justinian's image, or perhaps symbols associated with his reign, were circulated. Coins like these functioned as propaganda, extending his influence into the everyday lives of his subjects, impacting their perception of power and authority. Editor: So, it's about more than just monetary value? Curator: Precisely. Think about the social and political implications of controlling the imagery people handle daily. What does it mean to have the emperor's face—or symbols of the state—literally in the hands of the public? Editor: That's fascinating, seeing it as a tool of political messaging. I'll never look at a coin the same way again! Curator: Indeed, every artifact tells a story, revealing the intricate relationship between art, power, and society.