Denarius of C. Porcius M.f. M.n. Cato, Rome c. 123

Curator: This is a Roman silver denarius, a coin, minted by C. Porcius Cato. Its weight is about 3.89 grams. The coin offers a direct connection to the economic and political landscape of the time. Editor: It feels so small and yet carries the weight of an empire. I’m struck by the detail etched into such a tiny surface—the helmeted figure, the chariot. Who were they trying to reach? Curator: The helmeted figure is Roma, the personification of the city, and the reverse shows Victory driving a biga, a two-horse chariot. Editor: How interesting that money, a key tool of power, depicts Roma and Victory. It makes me think about how deeply entwined Roman identity was with military success and personified civic pride. Curator: Exactly. It reminds us that even everyday objects like coins were carefully designed propaganda tools. Editor: Seeing how these symbols were circulated, quite literally, among the populace makes you consider the pervasive nature of these messages. It definitely prompts a discussion about cultural values and the construction of identity. Curator: Indeed. It's a fascinating artifact to consider the social and political function of art. Editor: Absolutely, a microcosm of power dynamics.