Antoninianus of Claudius II c. 3th century

Editor: We're looking at an Antoninianus coin of Claudius II, a Roman emperor. Its aged patina gives it this sort of mystical, ancient feel, doesn't it? What stories do you think this little artifact could tell? Curator: Oh, I bet it's whispered secrets to the earth! Coins like these were everyday propaganda. Claudius was projecting power – even on a coin. What do you think he wanted people to feel when they spent it? Editor: Confidence in their ruler, maybe? Something tangible to hold onto in uncertain times? Curator: Precisely! And remember, each coin was a small act of creation, a tiny monument. I wonder who the artisan was that minted this? Editor: Wow, I hadn't considered that. So much history in something so small. Curator: Absolutely, it's like holding a little echo of the past in your hands.