Sestertius of Philip I c. 3th century

Curator: The Sestertius of Philip I, the Arab. It’s a bronze coin dating from his reign as Roman Emperor. Editor: It looks like it’s been through quite a lot, doesn't it? The patina tells a story of power and decay. Curator: Indeed. As a piece of propaganda, it circulated widely, reinforcing Philip’s image and authority. It's fascinating to think about its role in shaping public perception. Editor: It's more than just propaganda, though. Considering Philip's Arab origins, this coin speaks to issues of identity and otherness within the Roman Empire itself. Curator: Precisely. The coin's materiality itself is embedded in history. The copper alloy speaks to resource extraction, trade networks, and the very economics of empire. Editor: A powerful reminder that even the smallest objects can carry immense cultural and historical weight. Curator: Absolutely. It prompts us to consider not just who held power, but how that power was communicated and consumed.