Coin of Thyateira (Lydia) under Marcus Aurelius 161 - 180

Editor: This is a coin from Thyateira, Lydia, created under Marcus Aurelius, issued by Gaius Aurelius Stratonikianos. Its aged texture gives it a tangible connection to the past. What does this coin tell us about the society that made it? Curator: This coin is more than just currency; it's a carefully constructed piece of propaganda. The imagery and inscription were carefully selected to project power and legitimacy. How do you think its message would have been received by the people of Thyateira? Editor: I imagine it was a constant reminder of Roman authority, circulating through their daily lives. It's interesting to consider how art could be used as a tool of governance. Curator: Exactly. And coins like this offer a glimpse into the complex relationship between Rome and its provinces. They showcase the negotiation of power, cultural identity, and economic control. Editor: That's fascinating. I never thought a little coin could reveal so much. Curator: It's a powerful example of how art reflects and shapes social and political realities.