Sestertius of Philip I c. 3th century

Editor: Here we have a bronze sestertius of Philip I, the Arab. It's amazing to think of this object as something that was once held and used in daily transactions. What can you tell me about its creation and function? Curator: The material composition and production process are key. Bronze wasn’t just aesthetic; it represented a specific economic value and accessibility. The minting process itself, how the metal was cast and stamped, speaks to Roman control and standardization of labor. Editor: That's fascinating. So, the coin isn't just about the image, but also the societal structures it represents? Curator: Precisely. It circulated, entering into various social and economic exchanges, essentially a tool of Roman power and influence. Editor: I never thought about it that way. Now I see how much more there is to unpack!