Coin of Mytilene under Commodus c. 2th century

Editor: This is a Coin of Mytilene under Commodus. It's small, only 3.6 grams, but I am curious about how power and authority were communicated through such a seemingly modest object. How would you interpret its role in its historical context? Curator: Considering its context, such coinage wasn’t just currency, but a deliberate tool for projecting imperial power. The image of Commodus, likely on one side, would have been a constant visual reminder of Roman authority, circulating throughout the region. The imagery chosen for the reverse also warrants consideration. What does it depict, and what local narratives might it engage with? Editor: It looks like a river god. I hadn't thought about it as a political tool before, but I see your point now! Thanks! Curator: Precisely. The power of images is very important to consider! I'm glad you see that.