Coin of Justin II c. 565 - 578

Editor: Here we have a coin of Justin II, weighing just over a gram. It's incredible to consider that such a small object once held so much value and power. What can you tell me about its historical context? Curator: This coin, though small, speaks volumes about the socio-political forces at play during Justin II’s reign. Its imagery, likely depicting the emperor himself, was carefully crafted to project authority and legitimacy. How do you think its circulation influenced public perception? Editor: I hadn't considered that! So, the coin wasn’t just currency, but also a tool for propaganda. Curator: Precisely. Coins were one of the most widespread forms of visual communication. Studying this coin helps us understand how rulers like Justin II used art to shape their public image and reinforce their power. Editor: That’s a fascinating perspective. I’ll never look at old coins the same way again. Curator: Indeed, it’s a window into the past.