Follis of Galerius c. 309

Editor: This is a Follis of Galerius, a coin minted during his reign. It feels weighty, not just in its 6.93 grams, but also because it’s a tangible link to a distant past. What can you tell me about its significance? Curator: It’s a fascinating piece when we consider the power dynamics at play. This coin, in its time, was a tool of imperial propaganda, projecting an image of Galerius's authority and divine legitimacy. How do you think this object shaped perceptions of imperial power? Editor: I guess it would be a constant, visual reminder of his rule. So, by circulating these images, they were essentially controlling the narrative? Curator: Exactly! The figure on the reverse, likely a depiction of a Roman deity, reinforces this. It begs the question, who was this currency really serving, and how does it connect to contemporary visual strategies of control? Editor: That's a great point. I didn't think about how relevant that still is today! Curator: It really makes you think about the use of imagery in validating power, doesn't it?