Denarius of Q. Titius Mutto, Rome 90-87 BCE

Editor: Here we have a Denarius of Q. Titius Mutto, from Rome. Its silvery surface and tiny size belie its age and importance, and I'm just fascinated by the images—the head on one side and that peculiar winged horse on the other. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Well, imagine holding a piece of the Roman Republic in your hand! Each image whispers stories. The head is likely a representation of a deity, perhaps a household god or ancestor, and the winged horse, a griffin, symbolizes power and protection. It is such an interesting paradox that something used for trade is also embedded with symbolism, wouldn’t you agree? Editor: Absolutely. It feels like such a direct connection to the past. Curator: Yes, indeed. And it makes you wonder about the hands this little coin has passed through, doesn’t it? Maybe some hands traded it for bread. Editor: It really puts a new perspective on the concept of value.