Follis of Maximian I, Antioch 300 - 301

Curator: Here we have a Follis of Maximian I, minted in Antioch. Though the artist is technically Maximianus I Herculius, the creation and dissemination of coinage was a vast state undertaking. Editor: Its patinated surface whispers stories. I see power, of course, but also the wear of time. It feels like holding a little piece of eternity. Curator: Absolutely. This coin provides insight into the Roman Tetrarchy, a political structure implemented to stabilize the empire. The imagery was carefully chosen for its propaganda value. Editor: It’s interesting how such a small object carried so much weight, literally and figuratively, in shaping perceptions of power and legitimacy. You know, almost like a tweet today. Curator: That's an insightful comparison! Editor: It makes me want to write a poem about the ghost of emperors rattling around in my pocket.