Coin of Mopsos under Lucius Verus c. 162 - 163

Editor: This is a coin of Mopsos under Lucius Verus, a fascinating little artifact. The imagery is quite worn, but I see a crab on one side. What symbolic weight would that creature carry at that time? Curator: The crab, often linked to the zodiac sign Cancer, could symbolize cyclical renewal. It might represent the city's connection to the sea, its prosperity, or even a protective emblem against misfortune. Given the coin's association with Lucius Verus, consider what messages Roman authority sought to convey through local iconography. What do you think? Editor: So, it’s not just about the crab itself, but about how it was understood within the Roman Empire and the specific locale. That's helpful! Curator: Exactly. Symbols accrue layers of meaning over time. This coin provides a glimpse into the complex interplay of local identity and imperial power.