Coin of the Kaletedui c. 100 - 160

Curator: Here we have a Coin of the Kaletedui, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's quite small, isn't it? And heavily worn. You can really see the evidence of how it was made and handled. Curator: These coins offer insights into the economy and political structures of the Kaletedui, a Celtic tribe in ancient Spain. Money wasn't just about value; it was a statement. Editor: Absolutely. Looking at its materiality – likely silver or a similar alloy – and the crude striking, it speaks to a localized, perhaps decentralized, system of production. Curator: The imagery, though faded, hints at their cultural symbols and beliefs. What kind of narratives did these people want to propagate? Editor: It's a fascinating, tangible connection to the everyday lives of a society long gone. I wonder what these coins would buy back then. Curator: Food for thought, indeed. It’s remarkable how such a small object can tell such a large story. Editor: Agreed. It prompts you to consider the human effort embedded in even the smallest item.