Coin of Justinian I c. 547 - 548

Editor: This is a copper coin of Justinian I, currently residing in the Harvard Art Museums. The wear and tear makes it feel really tangible. What do you see in this piece beyond its monetary value? Curator: This coin isn't just currency; it's a powerful tool of imperial propaganda. Consider how Justinian, as a ruler in a tumultuous era, used his image and symbols to project authority and stability. How might its circulation have influenced the public's perception of his reign and the Byzantine Empire's enduring legacy? Editor: That's a really fascinating point! It's easy to overlook the power dynamics embedded in everyday objects. Curator: Exactly! Examining this coin allows us to deconstruct the narrative of power and control, revealing how seemingly insignificant artifacts can reflect broader social and political ideologies. Editor: Thanks, I'll remember that in my future studies.