Solidus of Zeno, Constantinople 476 - 491

Curator: Before us, we have a Solidus of Zeno, likely originating from Constantinople. It's a small, golden coin, just 4.5 grams, but carries significant weight, doesn't it? Editor: Indeed. The immediate impression is the sheer density suggested by such a small object. It looks like compacted power and wealth. Curator: One side presents a stylized portrait of Zeno, encircled by text. The composition is quite formal, adhering to a rigid structure. Editor: The tooling marks suggest a very particular kind of skilled labor, almost like a pre-industrial assembly line, stamping out authority. Curator: The angel on the reverse side holds a staff and globe, symbols of authority, with the legend "VICTORIA AVGGG" declaring victory. Semiotics of power! Editor: Right, but I'm also curious about the life cycle of this coin—how it was mined, minted, circulated, and potentially hoarded, representing daily exchange. Curator: It's a fascinating object, a window into late antiquity viewed through both its artistic form and its material existence. Editor: A testament to the durability of both power and the precious materials it covets.