Coin of Justin II c. 565 - 578

Editor: Here we have a coin of Justin II. It's small, metallic, and worn, but I find it quite beautiful. I'm curious, what can you tell us about the socio-political context of this coin? Curator: Well, this coin isn't just money. It's propaganda. It projects imperial power. Where do you think these coins were used and what message did they send? Editor: They were probably widely circulated, demonstrating the Emperor's authority and wealth to a broad audience. Curator: Exactly! Minting coins was a crucial function of the Byzantine state, controlling the imagery everyone saw every day. It’s a reminder of how even small objects can carry immense political weight. Editor: I see it now; it’s a piece of usable art with embedded political motives.