As or Dupondius of Faustina I 141 - 146

Editor: This is an As or Dupondius coin, most likely depicting Faustina I. The piece looks pretty worn, but I can still make out figures on both sides. What kind of stories do you think objects like this can tell? Curator: Consider the imagery placed on coinage – often a direct link to the values a society holds dear. The images of rulers, deities, or symbols of power reflect the aspirations, beliefs, and even the propaganda of the time. Editor: So, it’s not just money, but a cultural artifact. Curator: Exactly! Think of it as a portable monument, circulating through society, constantly reinforcing particular narratives and memories. What do you suppose the enduring power of portraiture on currency says about our human need for recognition and legacy? Editor: I hadn't thought about money having a memory, but now I see how this coin connects us to the past. Curator: Indeed! Every scratch, every faded detail, whispers a story of its journey through time.