Coin (Aes IV) of Arcadius, Herakleia 388 - 392

Curator: Here we have an ancient coin, specifically an Aes IV of Arcadius, minted in Herakleia. Editor: There's a weight to it, not just literally at 1.32 grams, but also an atmospheric density from its age and patina. It feels incredibly tactile. Curator: Absolutely. Coins like this were essential tools of imperial power, circulating the emperor’s image and decrees. The very act of minting and distributing currency reinforced centralized authority. Editor: And consider the labor involved, the mining, smelting, and hammering. This wasn't just money; it was condensed labor, a tangible representation of the empire's extractive processes. Curator: It's easy to forget that monetary policy, even then, was intrinsically linked to socio-political control. Coins weren't simply about trade; they were about projecting power. Editor: Seeing the degradation of the metal also emphasizes the environmental costs of the time. Curator: A fascinating point. It truly brings a deeper perspective to the history this coin carries. Editor: Yes, indeed, a tiny piece, but heavy with implications.