Coin of Constans II c. 5th century

Editor: This is a coin of Constans II, of undetermined date, residing at the Harvard Art Museums. The metallic composition is compelling, and I'm curious how a seemingly mundane object like this reflects larger historical forces. What are your insights? Curator: Considering the materials and the means of production, we see more than just currency. The coin’s material tells a story of resource extraction, labor, and trade networks within the Byzantine Empire. How does the coin's imagery reinforce Constans II's power through the control of its production and circulation? Editor: So it's not simply about the emperor's portrait, but about how the empire manifested its power materially? That's fascinating! Curator: Precisely. The very act of minting these coins, the distribution, speaks volumes about imperial control. Editor: I never thought of it that way before. It gives new meaning to "money talks." Curator: Indeed.