Coin of Tralles under Faustina Junior 161 - 175

Editor: Here we have a coin from Tralles under Faustina Junior, located at the Harvard Art Museums. It's quite small but depicts a portrait. What can you tell me about its role in society? Curator: This coin wasn't just money; it was propaganda. Its imagery, likely depicting Faustina, reinforced imperial power and values. Who do you think it was targeting? Editor: Probably the local population, to legitimize Roman rule? Curator: Precisely. Coins were ubiquitous, constantly reminding people of the emperor's authority. The very act of handling it connected people to the imperial center. Editor: So, it's less about monetary value and more about symbolic power? Curator: Exactly. The coin's symbolism and circulation were vital tools for shaping public opinion and maintaining social order. I had never thought of it like that. Editor: I see it now. Thanks for the insight!