Follis of Maximian I, Rome 300 - 301

Curator: Here we have a Follis of Maximian I, crafted in Rome. Editor: The patina is striking. It almost obscures the imagery, imbuing the piece with a sense of submerged history. Curator: Indeed. It is a testament to the emperor's image and power. Note the laurel wreath, a symbol of victory. Editor: And on the reverse, we see a figure holding scales—a direct representation of justice and Roman law. The careful articulation of those scales is impressive. Curator: The coin served not only as currency but as propaganda, embedding the emperor's values in the daily lives of people across the empire. Editor: The weathered surface belies the coin's original crisp design and ideological weight. Even in decay, it conveys authority. Curator: A small object, yet it carries the weight of Roman imperial ambition and the legacy of Maximian. Editor: It's remarkable how the piece's intrinsic form resonates with its cultural significance.