Solidus of Anastasios I,Constantinople c. 498 - 518

Curator: Here we see a solidus of Anastasios I from Constantinople, currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It’s remarkable how this small, golden disc, weighing less than 3 grams, conveys such power. Curator: Indeed. The material itself, gold, signals wealth and authority. Consider the labor involved in mining, refining, and minting this coin. The Emperor's portrait served as propaganda, reinforcing his legitimacy and control. Editor: And the image of the winged Victory on the reverse – what role did it play in shaping the Empire's self-image? How did such a coin function in rituals of exchange or gift-giving? Curator: It represents a complex web of economic and political power, expressed through carefully chosen materials and imagery. Editor: Seeing it this way illuminates not only the artistry but also the intricate systems that brought it into being. Curator: Absolutely, an object like this provides a unique window into a society's values and priorities.