Antoninianus of Diocletian 290

Editor: This is an Antoninianus coin of Diocletian. It’s small, worn, and looks like it's made of simple metal. I wonder, what can you tell me about this humble artifact? Curator: It's fascinating how such a small object embodies immense power. Consider the labor involved: from mining the raw materials, to smelting, crafting the die, and finally striking the coin itself. Each step reflects social hierarchies and resource control. Editor: That's an interesting take. How does the material affect its meaning? Curator: The base metal, likely bronze, speaks to the economic realities of the time, perhaps reflecting inflation or resource scarcity. It’s a far cry from the precious metals of earlier empires, indicating a shift in power dynamics and material value. Editor: I hadn't considered that! So, the coin’s material tells a story about power and resources. Curator: Precisely. It’s a lens through which we can examine the empire’s economic and social fabric. A reminder that even the smallest object can reveal grand narratives of production and consumption.