Coin of Seleucia ad Calykadnos under Gordion III c. 238 - 244

Editor: This coin, "Coin of Seleucia ad Calykadnos under Gordion III," whispers stories of an emperor long past. Its worn surface and muted tones evoke a sense of mystery. What do you see in this humble artifact? Curator: Oh, I see a portal! Think about it – this wasn’t just money; it was propaganda, a pocket-sized power statement. Gordian III, a boy emperor, trying to stamp his authority on a vast, unruly empire. Can you imagine the weight of that? Editor: The weight of an empire, literally in your pocket! So, the imagery...does it tell us more about his reign? Curator: Absolutely! It's a carefully constructed image, designed to project strength and legitimacy. Each symbol, each tiny detail, was chosen to resonate with the people. It's like a miniature theatre of power. And who wouldn't want that? Editor: That's fascinating. It makes you wonder about all the hands this coin has passed through. Curator: Exactly! Each scratch, each imperfection tells a silent story. It's a tangible link to a distant past, reminding us that even emperors are just fleeting figures in the grand scheme of things. Editor: I'll definitely look at coins differently now! Curator: Me too!