Tetradrachm of Alexandria under Claudius II c. 269 - 270

Editor: Here we have a Tetradrachm of Alexandria, made under Claudius II. Given its wear, the copper alloy speaks volumes about its journey through commerce and history. What do you see in this piece? Curator: It is remarkable how this coin reveals the economy of the Roman Empire. The base metal content, likely added to stretch resources, signals economic pressures of the time. Consider its production: The labor involved in mining, smelting, and striking these coins was immense, fueling the Roman war machine. Editor: So, it's not just a portrait, but a record of material exploitation? Curator: Precisely. Its materiality tells us of resource management, labor practices, and the vast network of trade and consumption that defined Roman power. We can also reflect on the life cycle of materials, and how we can give new meaning to these objects today. Editor: That's a powerful way to re-think art. Thank you!