As of Antoninus Pius c. 140 - 143

Curator: This coin, titled "As of Antoninus Pius," presents two views of an artifact from the Roman era. It feels incredibly intimate, almost like holding history in your hand. Editor: Looking at this, I immediately think about the power dynamics at play. Coins weren't just currency; they were propaganda, constantly reinforcing the emperor's image and authority. Curator: Absolutely. The portrait of Antoninus Pius, even in this worn state, projects an image of wisdom and strength. We must consider how this imagery shaped public perception and reinforced his position, legitimizing his rule. Editor: And the figure on the reverse? It's likely a goddess or personification of some virtue, further linking the emperor to divine favor and the stability of the empire. It's fascinating to consider what qualities they chose to emphasize and why. Curator: Indeed. This coin, though small, speaks volumes about the construction of power and identity in the Roman world. Editor: It really makes you think about how empires create and perpetuate their own narratives.