Coin of Gotarzes II of Parthia c. 40 - 51

Editor: Here we have a coin attributed to Gotarzes II of Parthia, housed at the Harvard Art Museums. The coin looks quite worn, but I'm struck by the textures created by the apparent degradation of the metal. What can you tell me about the material impact this object had on its society? Curator: This isn't just about currency; it reflects the very process of economic and social exchange. How was this coin produced? Who controlled the minting process and what did that say about their power? And how did its weight and material determine its value in the marketplace? Editor: That's a great point, I hadn't considered the implications of minting power. Curator: Exactly! Considering those who labored to extract the metals and strike the coins gives us insight into the true cost of wealth and power in Parthian society. Editor: I now see how much we can learn from even a small coin. Thanks!