A fullerene-metal nanocomposite is described that comprises a metal nanoparticle bonded to a functionalized fullerene compound. A useful method of making a fullerene-metal nanocomposite is also described. The method consists essentially of the steps of mixing a solution of metal salt or metal ion with a functionalized fullerene compound, and purifying the fullerene-metal nanocomposite from the solution. Also described are antimicrobial surfaces, comprising a substrate surface and a coating on the substrate surface comprising a fullerene-metal nanocomposite that includes a metal nanoparticle bonded to a functionalized fullerene compound.