Tetradrachm of Alexandria under Probus c. 279 - 280

Curator: This is a tetradrachm from Alexandria, issued under Emperor Probus. It's a small coin, about 7 grams, currently held in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It feels worn, almost tired, but still holds a regal presence. The verdigris patina gives it a sense of age and mystery. Curator: The coin’s material and production speak to the Roman Empire's vast economic reach and control over resources. This wasn't just currency; it was a symbol of power disseminated throughout the provinces. Editor: I see power, but also the cost of empire, the exploitation and social stratification baked into this seemingly simple object. Probus’s image here normalizes a male-dominated power structure, but also the labor and raw materials needed to mint this coin. Curator: Absolutely. By understanding the coin’s materiality, we can decipher the empire's priorities and the labor systems in place. The act of minting and circulating these coins solidified Roman authority and facilitated trade. Editor: Looking at it now, it's a potent reminder of the interconnectedness of power, gender, and material culture. Thanks for pointing out the coin’s production; that helps contextualize its use and circulation. Curator: And seeing it through your lens helps me appreciate its role in a broader historical and social narrative.