Coin of Side under Macrinus c. 217 - 218

Editor: This is a coin of Side under Macrinus, and I’m struck by the way such a small object carries so much history. What can you tell me about its role and how it was used to convey power? Curator: Well, coins like this were not just currency; they were carefully designed propaganda. Consider the portrait of Macrinus: how does it project authority, and what message was this coin intended to send to the people of Side? Editor: I guess the image would be important to legitimize his rule. I hadn't thought of it that way! Curator: Exactly! And how does its presence in a museum setting today affect its meaning, compared to its original function? Editor: That's so interesting to think about. It really makes you consider how our understanding of art changes with time and place.