Coin of Amphipolis under Antoninus Pius c. 2th century

Curator: So, here we have a coin of Amphipolis created under Antoninus Pius. It's a small bronze piece, about 7.62 grams. Editor: It looks battered, but beautiful. I love how time etches its story onto surfaces. This coin whispers of empires, trade, and perhaps even individual transactions. Curator: Absolutely. A coin like this embodies the power dynamics of the Roman Empire. Antoninus Pius ruled during a relatively peaceful period, yet this coin reflects the reality of imperial control. Editor: Its very existence challenges the notion of a "golden age". Who was excluded from its benefits? Who minted it, and for whom did it circulate? These questions open up avenues for discussion about class, gender, and access to resources in ancient society. Curator: It is a reminder that even the smallest artifacts can hold vast historical weight. Editor: Yes, it prompts us to think about the everyday lives of people living under imperial rule.