As of Antoninus Pius c. 140 - 144

Editor: Here we have a coin depicting Antoninus Pius, likely from his era. It’s weathered, but the imagery is still striking. What do you see in this piece as a bearer of cultural meaning? Curator: The coin presents a fascinating convergence of power and idealized imagery. The portrait of Antoninus Pius connects him to the tradition of Roman leadership, while the figure on the reverse, perhaps Pax or Abundantia, embodies the aspirations of his reign: peace and prosperity. Do you notice anything specific about how those aspirations are visualized? Editor: I see what looks like a figure, draped, holding something - maybe cornucopia? Is it typical to put these symbols together? Curator: Precisely! The cornucopia, a symbol of abundance, reinforces the idea of a prosperous empire under Antoninus Pius. Combining his image with such symbols anchors his reign in collective desires for stability and plenty. What does the coin's physical condition suggest? Editor: The wear and tear tell a story of circulation, of being held and used by many people. It's amazing how such a small object can carry so much history. Curator: Exactly. The coin is not just a symbol, but a tangible link to a specific historical moment and its enduring cultural values.