Tetradrachm of Alexandria under Salonina c. 265 - 266

Curator: What strikes me immediately is the solemn dignity emanating from this small, worn coin. Editor: Indeed. This is a tetradrachm issued in Alexandria under the reign of Salonina, wife of Emperor Gallienus, and part of the Harvard Art Museums collection. Curator: The eagle, standing triumphant on the reverse, immediately grabs attention. The eagle appears frequently on Roman coinage. Editor: Precisely. Its symbolic weight is immense—representing Jupiter, imperial power, military victory, and even deification, all rolled into one potent image. Curator: It's fascinating how such a tiny object could carry so much political and cultural capital. Coins as propaganda tools are just brilliant. Editor: I agree, and Salonina's presence on this coin demonstrates the increasing prominence of imperial women in public life during that period. Curator: It's a powerful reminder of the intersection between art, power, and belief in ancient Rome. Editor: Absolutely, seeing these symbols still resonates.