Sestertius of Philip I 

Curator: This is a sestertius, or bronze coin, depicting Philip I, also known as Philip the Arab. Editor: It looks incredibly weathered, almost like a miniature landscape consumed by time. The portrait seems worn, almost erased. Curator: Indeed, the coin's patina speaks to its age, but it's interesting to observe the craftsmanship. Note how the artist utilized incuse relief to create the portrait. Editor: Given Philip's background, a Syrian who rose through the Roman military, I wonder how this image served to legitimize his rule and represent his identity in a vast empire. Curator: A valid point. However, let's not overlook the intrinsic value of the object itself as a marker of Roman artistry and design. The symmetry of the portrait, the use of Latin script... Editor: I see your point, but it's hard to ignore the socio-political context. Currency isn't just about aesthetics; it's about power, trade, and cultural influence. Curator: A productive discussion, I must say. Editor: Yes, it's important to see it as both a material object and a historical artifact.