Denarius of Mn. Acilius (Glabrio?), Rome 49 BCE

Curator: Here we have a Denarius of Mn. Acilius, likely minted in Rome. The moneyer, Mn. Acilius, possibly Glabrio, remains a figure somewhat shrouded in historical detail. Editor: It's striking how this small object carries such weight. The profile feels stern, even regal, despite the coin's modest size. Curator: As currency, this coin reflects the socio-political dynamics of the time. The imagery, the issuing authority…these were all carefully considered. Editor: I'm drawn to the ways in which power is literally impressed onto the everyday. Who is given a face, whose story gets told on a coin like this? It's a potent form of propaganda. Curator: Indeed. And while we may not know the exact nuances of Mn. Acilius's life, this coin offers a tangible link to the economic and political landscape of ancient Rome. Editor: Thinking about it, this object is a reminder of how deeply intertwined power and representation have always been, with tangible implications then and now.