Coin of Seleukeia ad Kalykadnos under Gallienus c. 253 - 268

Editor: So, this "Coin of Seleukeia ad Kalykadnos under Gallienus" shows the Roman emperor Gallienus. It feels weighty, both literally and historically. What story does it tell you? Curator: Coins were crucial tools for imperial propaganda. The image of Gallienus projects power, connecting him to Seleukeia. Consider how this small object would have circulated, reinforcing Roman authority. Editor: That's fascinating! How would local populations have reacted to such imagery? Curator: Likely a mix of acceptance, resistance, and negotiation. These coins weren’t just currency; they were statements of dominance within a complex, multicultural society. Editor: It really brings history to life! Curator: Precisely. The power of art lies in understanding its role in shaping social and political realities.