Denarius of M. Sergius Silus, Rome c. 116

Editor: This is a denarius issued by M. Sergius Silus in Rome. The imagery feels very martial. What do you see in this piece, beyond its face value? Curator: Well, consider the context. Republican Rome was built on military expansion and civic virtue. These images weren't just currency; they were propaganda. Who is glorified, and what values are promoted? What stories do they tell about power and identity? Editor: So, the coin is not just about money, but about power? Curator: Exactly! It reflects a specific ideological agenda. How does representing individuals on coinage shape collective memory and cultural values, particularly regarding leadership and military success? It’s a loaded object, isn't it? Editor: It definitely gives me a lot to consider about money and power.