Billon Tetradrachm of Antoninus Pius, Alexandria c. 147 - 148

Curator: Before us, we have a Billon Tetradrachm of Antoninus Pius, hailing from Alexandria. Editor: It’s remarkable how much history is etched onto such a small, worn surface. The patinas hint at its age and journey. Curator: Indeed. This coin offers insight into the socio-political landscape of Roman Egypt. The image of Antoninus Pius represents Roman power, while its use in Alexandria speaks to a blend of cultures. Editor: Consider the materiality itself—billon, a mix of silver and base metal. It suggests a specific economic context, perhaps limitations on resources or deliberate devaluation. Curator: Absolutely. The coin shows the emperor’s power but also the economic realities that shaped daily life in a province far from Rome. It’s a tangible link to the people who used it. Editor: Seeing the wear and tear, you realize this wasn't just a symbol, it was a work object—passed from hand to hand, exchanged for goods and labor. Curator: A small object, yes, but it opens up a large space for understanding the intersections of power, identity, and daily life in the Roman world. Editor: Right, it’s a reminder that even the smallest objects can reveal the complex layers of history.