Coin of Abdera under Antoninus Pius c. 148

Curator: Here we have a bronze coin minted in Abdera during the reign of Antoninus Pius. Editor: It’s incredible how this small object carries such weight—both literally, at 4.31 grams, and figuratively, hinting at complex power dynamics. Curator: Indeed. The coin's structure—the incised portrait, the circular format—speaks to systems of representation and exchange. The profile itself, though worn, projects authority. Editor: But who did that authority serve? The coin signifies a social hierarchy, where Antoninus Pius and the Roman Empire controlled resources and shaped narratives. It's a form of propaganda, really, reinforcing imperial ideology. Curator: While that is a valid interpretation, notice the artistry, the lines that define the face, the textures achieved in metal. These formal elements are also important signifiers. Editor: I agree that the formal artistry has enduring appeal. However, for me, this coin is a reminder of the ever-present influence of political power on everyday life, even in antiquity. Curator: A fascinating interplay of surface and depth, wouldn't you say? Editor: Absolutely, it's a stark reminder of whose stories get told and preserved.