Denarius of Cn. Domitius, Rome c. 128

Curator: This is a denarius, a Roman coin, struck by Cn. Domitius. Editor: There’s an immediate sense of antiquity, isn't there? The metal has aged, yet the images are still crisp. Curator: Indeed. These coins weren't just currency; they were powerful tools for propaganda. On one side, we see the helmeted head of Roma, personifying the state. It speaks volumes about Roman identity and power structures. Editor: And the reverse depicts a chariot pulled by two horses, seemingly in motion. It’s interesting to consider the craftsmanship; how such detail was imprinted on such a small, circulated object. Its materiality speaks to its function. Curator: Absolutely. The imagery likely links Domitius to military prowess and ambition, reflecting the socio-political climate of the time. It’s a claim to power, subtly broadcast through everyday transactions. Editor: Examining it closely makes me wonder how many hands this passed through, how the material conditions of production influenced its design, and what its presence meant in the wider economy. Curator: I find it remarkable how one small object can encapsulate so much history and cultural significance. Editor: Yes, each imperfection tells a story of labor and exchange, which gives us so much to reflect on.