Billon Tetradrachm of Antioch on the Orontes under Elagabalus 218 - 222

Curator: This is a Billon Tetradrachm, a coin from Antioch on the Orontes during the reign of Elagabalus. Editor: It looks worn. The relief seems flattened, but I can make out a portrait and what looks like an eagle on either side. Curator: Precisely. The portrait is that of Elagabalus himself, depicted with laurel wreath. The reverse shows an eagle, a common symbol of Roman imperial power. Editor: Given the context, the eagle is more than just a symbol. It becomes propaganda, asserting power during a turbulent reign. Curator: Yes, and the materials themselves speak to the economic climate. Billon, an alloy of silver and copper, indicates a debasement of coinage, often occurring during times of crisis. Editor: It’s fascinating to consider how this small object tells a large story about power, representation, and material realities in ancient Rome. Curator: Indeed, a potent reminder of the layers of meaning embedded within even the most humble artifacts.