Antoninianus of Probus, Rome 277 - 282

Editor: Here we have the Antoninianus of Probus, a Roman coin. It has a weathered, almost mossy, appearance. I wonder, what can this seemingly mundane object tell us about the era it comes from? Curator: Well, the Antoninianus, named after Emperor Caracalla, speaks volumes about the socio-political landscape. Coinage was carefully monitored, with portraits reflecting imperial power and legitimacy. The fact that this coin depicts Probus is significant. Editor: Why Probus specifically? Curator: Probus was Emperor during a turbulent time in Roman history. His image on this coin served as propaganda, projecting an image of strength and stability during a period of crisis. The coins also facilitated trade and taxation, binding the empire economically and politically. Editor: So, even something as simple as a coin was a powerful tool. I never thought about it that way before. Curator: Exactly! It's a reminder that art and objects are rarely neutral; they often reflect and reinforce existing power structures.