Half Follis of Phokas, Carthage 602 - 603

Curator: Here we have a Half Follis of Phokas, minted in Carthage. It offers a glimpse into the economy and iconography of the Byzantine Empire. Editor: It’s incredibly tactile, isn't it? I just want to hold it, feel the weight, imagine it jingling in someone’s pocket, exchanging hands, a little piece of history… Curator: Exactly! Coins are powerful cultural artifacts. This one, likely from the early 7th century, depicts Phokas, who came to power during a period of political turmoil. Editor: The wear and tear, the imperfections…they tell a story of daily life, of trade, of power. It feels strangely intimate. Curator: Certainly. Currency broadcasts authority, and Phokas's image aimed to legitimize his reign. The coin would be widely circulated, reinforcing his presence. Editor: So, it's not just a coin, it’s a political billboard? It’s wild to think of its journey through time, silently witnessing history unfold! Curator: Precisely, and its survival allows us a tangible connection to that history. Editor: Just imagine the hands it passed through. Incredible!