Follis of Maximianus 298 - 299

Curator: There's a poignant sense of decay here. This Follis of Maximianus, weighing only 9.54 grams, feels burdened by the weight of history. Editor: Absolutely. The visible wear and corrosion speak volumes about its journey through time, it invites reflections on power and impermanence. Curator: This coin, attributed to Maximianus I Herculius, is more than just currency; it's a symbol of imperial power projected onto a small, portable object. Editor: The imagery likely draws on established Roman iconography – perhaps a depiction of the emperor or a significant deity – reinforcing cultural values and political legitimacy. Curator: Precisely, coins like these played a vital role in disseminating the image of the emperor and solidifying his authority across a vast and diverse empire. We must consider the cultural implications and the power dynamics that shaped its creation and circulation. Editor: The very act of holding this coin connects us to a distant past. I can almost feel the echoes of Roman civilization resonating within its worn surface. Curator: A powerful reminder that even the most imposing empires are subject to the relentless march of time. Editor: And a demonstration of how potent symbols persist.