Denarius of C. Memmius C.f., Rome (imitation?) c. 56 BCE

Editor: This is a Roman coin, a Denarius of C. Memmius C.f. struck in Rome. It's small, but the imagery feels powerful. What strikes you about it? Curator: Coins like this are more than just currency. They're powerful tools of propaganda. Who is being represented and why? What narratives are being perpetuated, and whose stories are being erased in the process? Editor: That's a good point. I never thought of it as propaganda. Curator: Think about it: the imagery, the inscriptions - these are carefully chosen to project power and legitimacy. Who gets to decide what is valuable? Who benefits from that power dynamic? Editor: I see it now! It is pretty interesting when you consider it from a political point of view. Curator: Exactly! It is a constant negotiation of value, representation, and power.