Denarius of L. Furius Cn.f. Brocchus, Rome c. 63 BCE

Curator: Here we have a denarius, a Roman coin, made by L. Furius Cn.f. Brocchus. It's small, only 3.82 grams, but what an artifact! Editor: It's so worn, it looks like it has journeyed through time. The material itself tells a story. Curator: Indeed. Look at the female head, possibly a representation of a deity, and the inscription "BROCCHI" beneath. Note the symbols of power and identity! Editor: The process of striking these coins – the physical labor, the extraction of silver, the standardization – that's where the real story lies for me. Curator: It's more than just metal, though. Coins such as this were symbols of Roman power, and circulated throughout the empire. They were laden with meaning and association. Editor: Meaning imposed on a material object, I'd argue. Still, it's amazing to think how this small piece connected vast trade networks. Curator: It is fascinating to reflect on what symbols we choose to carry forward. Editor: And the ways in which material and social history are always entwined.