Denarius of Julia Domna c. 196 - 211

Editor: So, this is a Denarius of Julia Domna. It’s a silver coin and what strikes me is the contrast between its small size and the immense power it represents. How do you interpret this work? Curator: This coin isn’t just currency; it's a potent statement about imperial power and gender. Julia Domna, as empress, was actively shaping her image and, by extension, her influence. What does it mean for a woman's image to circulate so widely? Editor: It's interesting to consider how her representation, though controlled, might have been interpreted differently by diverse populations within the empire. Curator: Exactly! Coins like these offer glimpses into the complex negotiations of power, identity, and representation in ancient Rome. It's a reminder that even the smallest objects can carry immense social and political weight.