Follis of Constantine I, Heraclea 324

Curator: Today we’re looking at a Follis of Constantine I, crafted in Heraclea. The weight? Just 3.55 grams. Editor: It’s incredible to think about the hands this small object has passed through, isn’t it? So much power conveyed through this material. Curator: Absolutely. Think about the social and political context: Constantine I, a pivotal figure, shaping the trajectory of the Roman Empire, transitioning it towards Christianity. The coin embodies this shift. Editor: Consider too, the labor involved in mining the metal, the craftsmanship required to imprint these images—all directed toward reinforcing imperial authority. Curator: The depiction of Constantine on one side and the inscription on the other served as propaganda, legitimizing his rule and disseminating his image. Editor: A powerful message delivered through the everyday object of currency. It really speaks to the intersection of art, labor, and power. Curator: Indeed, seeing art as a tool within broader historical narratives—linking identity and governance. Editor: It’s fascinating how a tiny coin can illuminate such vast societal structures. Curator: It’s really a testament to how material culture reflects and shapes power dynamics.