Coin of Justinian II c. 7th - 8th century

Editor: Here we have a gold coin of Justinian II. What strikes me is the detail achieved on such a small object. What can you tell us about its production? Curator: The coin's gold material and the detailed figuration speak volumes about the Byzantine economy and social hierarchy. How did the process of minting and distribution reinforce Justinian’s power? Editor: So, you're saying the value isn't just monetary, but also symbolic in terms of labor and power? Curator: Precisely. Consider the workers extracting the gold, the artisans creating the die, the officials overseeing production, and how it all contributes to the coin’s inherent value beyond its weight. Editor: I never thought about it that way. It's more than just currency; it’s a record of the entire social and economic structure. Curator: Indeed, and this piece provides a lens for exploring the intricate connection between art, labor, and the assertion of imperial power.