Solidus of Maurice Tiberius, Constantinople c. 583 - 601

This is a gold solidus made in Constantinople during the reign of Maurice Tiberius. This coin gives us insight into the Byzantine Empire's social and political structures. The image on the coin speaks volumes. On one side, we see a portrait of Maurice Tiberius, likely intended to convey power and authority. The other side presents a figure of Christ. The combination of imperial and religious imagery tells us much about the intertwined nature of church and state in the Byzantine world. Understanding this coin requires looking into Byzantine history, religion, and politics. Archaeological records, Byzantine texts, and theological treatises are invaluable tools for exploring the social conditions that shaped the creation and interpretation of such objects. This solidus is far more than a piece of currency. It is a cultural artifact reflecting the values and beliefs of a complex society.