Solidus of Arcadius 383 - 386

Editor: Here we have a gold "Solidus of Arcadius" - quite a weighty piece! I’m immediately struck by the detail packed onto such a small surface. What can you tell me about what we’re seeing? Curator: Imagine holding a miniature empire in your palm. This isn't just currency; it's propaganda, a declaration. Arcadius is literally stamping his authority, creating a lasting impression. Think of it as an ancient meme! Editor: So, how did people back then interpret these images? Curator: For the elite, it reinforced power. For the common person, it was a constant reminder of the emperor's presence, almost like an early form of celebrity culture, but with higher stakes. Isn’t it fascinating how much meaning can be pressed onto one coin? Editor: It's amazing to think about how much power a little gold could carry.