Coin of Tarsus under Antoninus Pius c. 138 - 161

Editor: Here we have a coin of Tarsus under Antoninus Pius, from the Harvard Art Museums. Given its age, the wear and tear are remarkable. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: Considering its form, we must investigate the social and economic systems it represents. Who controlled the production and distribution of these coins, and what did that signify about their power? How did the materiality of bronze affect its use and value? Editor: So, the coin is more than just an artifact? Curator: Precisely. It's a product of its time, reflecting Roman imperial power and the city of Tarsus's place within that structure. Even its degradation tells a story of circulation, use, and eventual loss. Editor: Fascinating, I didn't consider that! Thanks for opening my eyes to its socio-economic context.