Follis of Galerius Maximianus, Lugdunum 303 - 305

Editor: Here we have a Follis of Galerius Maximianus, likely from Lugdunum. It's a small bronze coin. Looking at it now, I'm struck by how something so small can tell such a big story. What do you see in this piece that maybe I'm missing? Curator: This coin isn’t just currency; it’s a piece of propaganda. Galerius used these images to cement his power and project an image of strength and legitimacy. How does portraying himself in this way affect how he's remembered? Editor: So, it's more than just a portrait; it's a constructed identity. It makes you wonder about the relationship between image and power, even today. Curator: Exactly. Consider how rulers throughout history and even public figures today use carefully crafted images to shape public opinion and maintain control. This coin opens a dialogue about power, representation, and lasting legacies. Editor: That's incredible. Thanks; I'll never look at a coin the same way again. Curator: Me neither. Every object holds a story, waiting to be unlocked.