Coin of Justinian II c. 705 - 711

Curator: We're looking at a gold coin of Justinian II, a Byzantine Emperor. Editor: The luster of the gold is striking, even now. Notice the intricate, shallow relief. Curator: The coin presents powerful visual propaganda. Consider Justinian's tumultuous reign, marked by deposition and exile. This coin served to re-establish his divine right. Editor: See how the lines create both texture and form. The symmetry, though slightly imperfect, is quite commanding. Curator: Absolutely. It's a potent symbol of power, faith, and imperial ambition, reflecting the complex socio-political landscape of the Byzantine Empire. Editor: A study in miniature, it reveals how much expression and authority can be captured in metal. Curator: The narratives encoded in this coin offer a glimpse into a critical period. Editor: Indeed, a fascinating artifact; the weight of history and artistry in a gram.