Coin of Justinian I c. 558 - 559

Curator: Here we have a coin of Justinian I, a fascinating artifact from the Byzantine Empire. Editor: It looks rather worn, yet the symbols are still legible; there's a solemn feel to it, wouldn't you say? Curator: Indeed. One side features a stylized portrait of Justinian, observe the symmetry of the face. Editor: Given Justinian's codification of Roman law and military expansion, this coin represents the power structures inherent in the Byzantine era. Curator: Semiotically, the coin communicated authority; consider the use of imperial imagery. Editor: Absolutely, and circulating these coins affirmed Justinian's control, both economically and ideologically. Curator: It's remarkable to see how such a small object encapsulates an empire's ambitions. Editor: A tangible piece reflecting the social and political forces that shaped our world.