Large Follis of Anastasios I, Constantinople c. 498 - 518

Editor: Here we have a Large Follis coin of Anastasios I, straight from Constantinople. Seeing it now, I'm struck by its simple design and the way time has softened its features. What story do you think this little coin whispers? Curator: Oh, it's a tale of power and practicality, a pocket-sized billboard for Anastasios! Notice the bold 'M' – that's the denomination, forty nummi. It's like the ancient world's version of a 'big spender' coin. Doesn't it make you wonder what hands it passed through, what market stalls it jingled in? Editor: Absolutely! It's like holding a tiny piece of everyday life from centuries ago. Curator: Exactly! And coins like these were a clever way to spread the emperor's image and authority. It makes me think of how we use social media today. What do you think? Editor: That's an interesting analogy, it really puts it into perspective. It is amazing to look at an image of the emperor that has transcended time. Curator: Indeed! I'm always amazed by the stories these objects can tell, and the reflections that they hold!