Coin of John II c. 12th century

Curator: At the Harvard Art Museums, we have this fascinating object: a gold coin issued during the reign of John II. Its weight is about 4.55 grams. Editor: Even on this small scale, it's clear the iconography of power and authority is carefully rendered. There's a palpable sense of history embedded in this little disc. Curator: Absolutely. Coins such as these were vital tools for projecting imperial imagery and solidifying the emperor's legitimacy across the Byzantine world. Editor: It’s intriguing how this coin served as a miniature billboard, shaping public perception of John II and communicating his dominion through symbolic shorthand. What was the typical circulation pattern of such coins, and how did their imagery reinforce Byzantine social hierarchies? Curator: Coins of this type would have been crucial to Byzantine commerce and taxation, serving as everyday reminders of the emperor's power. It's a fascinating lens through which to view the Byzantine Empire. Editor: Indeed, seeing the traces of a ruler’s ambition impressed on something so intimate really brings history to life.