Coin of Justinian I c. 543 - 544

Curator: This is a bronze coin, dating from the reign of Justinian I, a powerful figure of the Byzantine Empire. It’s currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Its eroded surface gives it such a solemn gravity; you can almost feel the weight of history embedded in its texture. Curator: The formal design elements offer insight into Justinian's authority. We see his effigy on one side, carefully rendered with symbols of power. Editor: And the reverse is dominated by the large “M,” marking its monetary value. It is interesting to note the strategic choice of symbols used to communicate authority and value in a society steeped in tradition. Curator: Indeed. Considering the coin's ubiquity in daily transactions, its imagery becomes a crucial tool for reinforcing imperial legitimacy and economic stability. Editor: Precisely. It’s a powerful reminder that even the smallest objects can tell a monumental story about power, belief, and the flow of culture. Curator: A poignant observation that perfectly encapsulates the coin's significance.