Tetradrachm of Alexandria under Claudius II Gothicus c. 269 - 270

Editor: This weathered coin, a Tetradrachm of Alexandria under Claudius II Gothicus, feels incredibly weighty, almost like holding a tiny piece of history. What stories do you think this little artifact could tell us? Curator: Well, if it could talk! It whispers of Alexandria, a melting pot under Roman rule. Claudius Gothicus, a brief but bright flame, trying to hold the empire together. Notice the figure on the reverse – Nike, Victory herself. Hope in troubled times, perhaps? Editor: That’s fascinating. So, it’s not just currency, it’s propaganda? Curator: Absolutely! Coins were the ancient world's newsfeed, spreading messages far and wide. This one, a tiny echo of power and aspiration, weathered but unbowed. Editor: I never thought I could find so much in just one small coin. Thank you! Curator: My pleasure. It’s amazing how the smallest things can reflect the largest narratives, isn't it?