Dupondius of Mariniana, wife of Valerian 253 - 257

Curator: Here we have a dupondius, a Roman coin, of Mariniana, who was the wife of Emperor Valerian. Editor: It looks like it's been through a lot, a little beat up, but there is something regal about it still. Curator: Absolutely. Coins like this weren't just currency; they were powerful propaganda tools, circulating images of imperial authority. Editor: So, having her image on this coin would signal her importance? Curator: Precisely. Mariniana was deified after her death, further legitimizing Valerian's reign. Editor: It makes you wonder about her story. What was she like? Did she know this bit of metal would carry her likeness for ages? Curator: A fascinating thought, and one that keeps us connected to the past in such a tangible way. Editor: It's history you can literally hold in your hand, transformed and worn by time.