Follis of Justinian I, Kyzikos

Follis of Justinian I, Kyzikos

Byzantine struck bronze coin

This coin was produced between 498 and 518 C.E. and it is holed like the coin of Romanos IV (which came much later in the 11th century). Coins serving as amulets is not uncommon and we see this practice throughout the Middle Ages. On this coin, the mention of the holy is not as apparent. On one side is again, the ruler Justinian I and on the other is a cross. Perhaps the presence of the ruler was enough to suggest a divine theme, leading to this coin's use as an amulet.

Harvard Art Museums Website

Harvard Art Museums/Arthur M. Sackler Museum

Harvard Art Museums/Arthur M. Sackler Museum

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