Coin of Gadara under Gordian III 239 - 240

Curator: This is a coin of Gadara minted under Gordian III. It offers a compelling look at the material culture of the Roman Empire. Editor: It feels so worn, almost like it's whispering stories from a bygone era. The images, though faded, hint at a powerful narrative. Curator: Indeed. The coin's mass, about 13.69 grams, represents not just its worth, but the labor, trade, and resource extraction tied to its production and dissemination. The very act of minting these coins was a form of imperial propaganda. Editor: Yes, and consider the imagery itself! What does this choice of symbols tell us about the city’s identity? The messages they wanted to convey about power, prosperity, and their place in the Roman world? Curator: It’s remarkable how something so small physically could have such a large impact on markets and even psychology. Editor: Absolutely. Holding it, you feel a direct link to the cultural values of the past. Curator: Studying the material properties reveals insights into ancient technologies, trade routes, and power structures. Editor: A powerful testament to symbols, indeed!