Follis of Constantine I, Thessalonica 330 - 333

Editor: This is a Follis of Constantine I from Thessalonica. It’s small, worn, but I can still make out the figure of a man. What can you tell me about the symbolism here? Curator: Coins such as these were not just currency; they were powerful symbolic tools. What figure do you believe you see depicted? Editor: I think it’s Constantine. Curator: Indeed. The iconography projected imperial power and divine favor. The eagle on the reverse side reinforces this, doesn't it? Consider its association with Jupiter, a symbol adopted by Roman emperors. Editor: So, it's about conveying a message of authority? Curator: Precisely. These images tap into a shared visual language, reinforcing cultural memory and the emperor's enduring legacy. Editor: It’s incredible how much meaning can be packed into such a small object. Curator: The power of symbols lies in their ability to transcend time, reminding us of the values and beliefs of past societies.