Antoninianus of Tetricus I, Barbarous Imitation 270 - 273

Curator: This little coin, an Antoninianus of Tetricus I, is intriguing. It's labeled a "barbarous imitation," and I find that so evocative. There's a mystery there, a hint of rebellion. Editor: I see a tarnished, humble object, yet teeming with the echoes of empire and resistance. It's fascinating how an object so small can carry such weight. Curator: It feels incredibly human, doesn't it? To try to copy something, but to have it come out slightly… off. It makes you wonder about the person who made it, their skills, their motivations. Editor: Absolutely. These so-called barbarous imitations speak volumes about cultural exchange and power dynamics on the fringes of the Roman Empire. The fact that it's considered an imitation says a lot about whose standards were considered the norm. Curator: It's easy to look at grand sculptures and think, "that's art," but something like this coin—worn, imperfect—can be just as powerful. It’s like a whisper from the past. Editor: And it reminds us that history isn't just about emperors and battles; it's also about the everyday lives of people trying to make their way in the world. It definitely shifts my perspectives on value and authenticity. Curator: Indeed, it is a tiny reminder of the vast and complex web of human experience. Editor: Agreed. It is a subtle provocation to question the narratives we inherit.