Denarius of M. Lucilius Rufus, Rome c. 101

Curator: This is a Roman silver coin, a denarius, issued by M. Lucilius Rufus, a moneyer, though its exact date is unknown. It’s interesting how much information is conveyed on such a small, utilitarian object. Editor: The wear is incredible; it feels like holding centuries of exchange in one's hand. You can almost feel the weight of its social history. Curator: Exactly! The imagery is quite striking. On one side, we see Roma, helmeted, which becomes a powerful symbol of Roman identity and power. Editor: And the reverse depicts Victory driving a biga, a two-horse chariot—again, echoing themes of triumph and military might. One wonders about the silver used—the mines, the labor… Curator: The symbolic weight of that image, Victory in full flight, must have been intensely felt by those who used this currency. The message is clear, isn’t it? Editor: Indeed. It speaks to the vast material networks and political power underpinning something as seemingly simple as a coin. Curator: A fascinating artifact, truly. Editor: Absolutely, a small object revealing huge stories.