Antoninianus of Maximian, Antioch c. 293

Editor: Here we have an Antoninianus of Maximian from Antioch, created by Maximianus I Herculius. It's a small coin, made of metal, that feels like a tangible link to the Roman Empire. What stands out to you about this little piece of history? Curator: It's remarkable, isn't it? Think of the hands it passed through! For me, these coins whisper stories of power and propaganda. See Maximian's stern profile on one side? He's projecting authority, carefully crafted for circulation. The other side…what do *you* see? Editor: Looks like two figures…maybe emperors? Curator: Quite possibly! They reinforce the idea of shared rule, the Tetrarchy, Maximian's ingenious way to manage a vast empire. It's all about image, control, and legacy, compressed onto this tiny, weathered surface. Editor: So much to unpack in such a small space! I’ll never look at coins the same way. Curator: Precisely! They are little time capsules, brimming with meaning.