Denarius of Caracalla c. 211

Editor: This is a Denarius of Caracalla, made by Caracalla himself! It's impressive how such a small object carries so much history. What symbols stand out to you the most? Curator: The laurel wreath, a potent emblem of victory and status, immediately draws the eye. Note the figure on the reverse – likely Mars, the god of war. The coin’s imagery acted as a powerful propaganda tool, shaping perceptions of Caracalla's reign and projecting military strength. What might these symbols evoke in the collective memory of the Roman citizen? Editor: It's like he's trying to control his narrative, even now. The power of an image, right? Curator: Exactly. The emotional impact, the cultural weight… it all persists, doesn’t it? Editor: Definitely something to think about. Curator: Indeed, and a reminder of how symbols shape our understanding of history.