Dupondius of Antoninus Pius c. 140 - 143

Curator: Here we have a dupondius, a bronze coin, featuring Antoninus Pius. Editor: It’s remarkable, isn’t it? The wear and tear tell a story of countless transactions, maybe even journeys. Curator: Absolutely. Antoninus Pius was known for his relatively peaceful and prosperous reign. Coins like these were tools of propaganda. This one would have circulated widely, a constant reminder of the emperor's image and authority. Editor: Do you think the image of Antoninus Pius and its circulation among the Roman people reinforced a patriarchal system? Curator: Without a doubt. Coinage normalized a system where men were presented as leaders and authority figures, reflecting power structures of the time. Editor: Food for thought. I'm struck by how something so small could hold such weight and meaning.