As of L. Calpurnius L.f. L.n. Piso Frugi, Rome c. 90 BCE

Editor: This is an As of L. Calpurnius Piso Frugi from Rome. It's a coin, quite worn, but it feels like it holds so much history. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: This coin speaks volumes about Roman power structures. The Piso family was incredibly influential. Who benefitted and who was exploited in the creation and distribution of this wealth? Consider the enslaved labor in the mines that extracted the metal. Editor: So, even something as simple as a coin can reveal inequalities? Curator: Absolutely. Currency is never neutral. It's a tangible representation of societal values and power dynamics. What do you think this coin says about those in power? Editor: It makes me think about who was included and excluded from the Roman economy. Curator: Precisely. It’s a potent reminder that history is not just about emperors and battles, but about the everyday lives impacted by these systems.