Coin of Nikopolis under Julia Domna c. 2th - 3th century

Editor: This is a coin from Nikopolis, minted under Julia Domna. It has a certain weight about it, a density of history and power. What symbols jump out at you? Curator: The portrait of Julia Domna herself, for one. Consider what it meant for her image to circulate so widely. It was a calculated projection of imperial power, but also an assertion of female presence in a patriarchal society. Editor: So the image becomes a tool? Curator: Precisely. What emotions and psychological triggers are being activated when people see the sovereign’s face daily? Power, security, divine favour... Editor: It's fascinating how a small object can carry such symbolic weight. Curator: Absolutely. This coin is a reminder that images are never neutral.