Coin of Alexandreia under Julia Mamaea c. 3th century

Curator: Before us is a coin of Alexandreia, minted under Julia Mamaea, now residing in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's captivating! The eroded surface and subtle relief create a striking tactile quality. Curator: Indeed, the coin, though small, acts as a powerful symbol, carrying the weight of empire and the image of a powerful woman. The imagery evokes a sense of authority and permanence. Editor: I'm drawn to the interplay of light and shadow on the coin's surface. The composition, despite its simplicity, feels incredibly balanced. Curator: The coin served not only as currency but also as a propaganda tool, embedding the image of the ruling class deeply within the collective consciousness. Editor: It's a testament to the enduring power of material objects, the capacity of even the smallest token to resonate across millennia. Curator: Exactly! Through this tiny coin, we glimpse a vast world of social structure and ideology. Editor: It makes you wonder about the hands it passed through, and the stories it could tell!