Denarius of Julia Domna c. 196 - 211

Editor: This is a Denarius of Julia Domna, wife of Septimius Severus. The silver is tarnished, aged. How should we read this coin today? What do you see in it? Curator: Coins like this were tools of imperial propaganda. Julia Domna's image, circulated widely, was a constant reminder of the dynasty's power. Who controlled the image, controlled the narrative. Editor: So, it's less about the artistic value, and more about the message it conveyed? Curator: Precisely. It’s about power, representation, and how rulers used art to shape public perception. The coin is an artifact of political strategy. Editor: That makes it feel more relevant. It's a lesson in how imagery functions politically. Curator: Exactly! These objects, though small, speak volumes about larger social and political forces.