AE Diocletian 

Editor: This is an ancient bronze coin, "AE Diocletian," with no specified date, made by Diocletian. The wear and tear on it is striking. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Look closely at the surface. The wear isn't just damage, it's a record of circulation, of countless transactions shaping daily life and the imperial economy. How does that materiality speak to you about the Roman empire's power? Editor: I hadn't considered the coin's circulation as a form of labor. The distribution of wealth through something so tactile is fascinating. Curator: Precisely! It's not just an artifact, but a witness to economic and social processes. The coin's very existence prompts us to think about materiality and value creation. Editor: That’s a powerful lens through which to view this. Thanks! Curator: Indeed, viewing art this way gives us new perspective.