Follis of Maximinus II, Alexandria 308 - 310

Editor: This is a Follis coin of Maximinus II, likely from Alexandria. It's small, but weighty. The profile of the emperor looks severe. How do you interpret the imagery of power and authority on such an object? Curator: This coin, though small, speaks volumes about power dynamics in the Roman Empire. Consider how images of emperors were circulated as tools of propaganda and control. How do you think this impacted the lived experiences of those under Roman rule, particularly in a diverse place like Alexandria? Editor: I guess seeing the emperor’s face daily, even on a coin, would have been a constant reminder of Roman authority. Curator: Exactly! And how might such repetitive imagery shape perceptions of identity and belonging, not only for the colonizers but also for the colonized? Editor: That's something to consider. Thanks for helping me think about the deeper implications of such a seemingly simple object. Curator: My pleasure. It's crucial to remember that even the smallest objects can carry significant cultural weight.