Coin of Caracalla, Sardis (Lydia) c. 198s - 208s

Curator: This is a coin from Sardis, Lydia, bearing the image of Caracalla, the Roman emperor. It’s a small object, but dense with meaning, isn't it? Editor: Absolutely. It feels weighty, even just to look at. It's amazing how an object meant for circulation could also serve as propaganda. Curator: Precisely. Note how the coin is divided. One side showcases Caracalla in profile, embodying Roman power. The other side appears to depict two figures facing each other, with celestial symbols. Editor: And what does that reverse imagery suggest? A negotiation of power, perhaps? The celestial symbols lend a sense of divine endorsement, a claim of legitimacy in a province like Lydia. Curator: It speaks to the blend of Roman imperial imagery with local beliefs. The coin becomes a site of cultural exchange, but also of Roman assertion. Editor: Yes, it's a power play, definitely. This coin isn't just currency; it's a statement about Rome's dominance in Lydia. It’s a fascinating glimpse into imperial strategies. Curator: Indeed, a tiny artifact, yet a vast echo of history and cultural memory. Editor: I agree. It’s a reminder that even small objects can tell big stories about power and identity.