Coin of Lyrbe under Gallienus c. 3th century

Editor: This is "Coin of Lyrbe under Gallienus" from the Harvard Art Museums. It's worn, a bronze disc really. What can you tell me about it? Curator: This coin is a powerful, albeit small, artifact. I see a statement about power, about whose image is privileged and whose is erased. Editor: Erased? Curator: Yes, consider who gets to be represented, whose likeness is deemed worthy of circulation. This coin, minted under Gallienus, participates in a larger system of image dissemination, of reinforcing power structures. It asks us to consider the ethics of representation. Editor: So, more than just currency, it's a political statement? Curator: Precisely. The value isn't just monetary; it's about controlling the narrative, influencing public perception. Editor: That's a whole different way to look at it. Thanks!