Coin of Philadelphia Arabiae under Commodus c. 2th century

Editor: Here we have a coin of Philadelphia Arabiae under Commodus. It's quite small, but it's incredible to imagine the hands it passed through. What can you tell me about this artifact? Curator: This coin offers a fascinating glimpse into the Roman Empire's complex relationship with its provinces, specifically Arabia. Commodus' reign was marked by increasing autocracy, so I wonder how this coin was used to project power and legitimize his rule within a culturally distinct region like Philadelphia? Editor: So, coins like this weren't just currency; they were also propaganda? Curator: Absolutely. How do you think the imagery, perhaps even the material itself, might have resonated, or perhaps even clashed, with local identities and power structures in Philadelphia Arabiae? The study of ancient currency helps us question power dynamics and narratives, and how they were received. Editor: I never thought about it that way; it makes you wonder who was able to use it, and what messages they received. Curator: Precisely. Considering the socio-political landscape in Philadelphia Arabiae during Commodus' reign encourages us to consider what resistance or negotiation might have been embedded in the use and circulation of this coin.