Coin of Julia Paula, Kaisareia-Germanike 219

Editor: Here we have a coin of Julia Paula, from Kaisareia-Germanike. It feels like a small window into a powerful woman's life. What strikes you about this coin? Curator: This coin speaks volumes about the construction of imperial identity and gender roles in ancient Rome. Julia Paula's depiction, though stylized, was carefully crafted to project power, legitimacy, and adherence to societal expectations for women in positions of influence. How does seeing her likeness on currency challenge or reinforce your understanding of female agency in that era? Editor: I guess I hadn't thought about the potential for agency, I was seeing it more as a symbol of power. Curator: Exactly! It's both. It prompts us to consider how women navigated patriarchal systems and carved out spaces for themselves, even within carefully prescribed boundaries. Food for thought! Editor: I will definitely be thinking about it. Thanks.