Coin of Samos under Commodus c. 2th century

Editor: Here we have a Coin of Samos under Commodus from the Harvard Art Museums. Looking at the weathered texture, I’m curious about what this coin tells us about the materials and process involved in its creation. What can you tell me about this work? Curator: The wear and tear on this coin speaks volumes. We can trace the material, likely bronze or a similar alloy, from mine to mint. The striking process itself, the labor involved, and its function as currency, all point to the social and economic systems at play during Commodus’s reign. Editor: So, more than just an image of Commodus, it’s a record of production and exchange? I hadn't considered the labor. Curator: Exactly. And consider where this coin circulated. Was it primarily used for local trade in Samos, or did it travel further afield? Understanding its circulation reveals networks of consumption. Editor: That’s fascinating! I’ll definitely look at ancient coins differently now. Curator: Indeed, it is a small object, but it speaks to the power of labor and materials in society.