Tokens and Social Life in Roman Imperial Italy

Tokens from Roman Italy were underutilized artefacts that played a crucial role in mediating human interactions. This book explores their role in creating imperial imagery and revealing the diverse identities of communities in Rome and Ostia. Tokens carried imagery related to emotions and experiences, and were designed to provoke specific reactions. They bear similarities to ancient Roman currency but also possess important differences.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 02 November 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Tokens, ancient artifacts from the past, hold immense value yet remain underappreciated. As ordinary objects, they played a pivotal role in facilitating human interactions. In this comprehensive book, we delve into the realm of tokens, focusing specifically on their significance in Roman Italy. We explore their role in shaping imperial imagery and uncover the diverse identities within the communities of Rome and Ostia. It becomes evident that tokens carried imagery that resonated with the emotions and experiences of various festivals, intentionally designed to elicit specific reactions from their users. These tokens bear similarities to ancient Roman currency, yet also possess distinct characteristics.

Tokens in Roman Italy were utilized by a wide range of groups for specific occasions or moments in time. Their intricate designs reveal insights into experiences and individuals that have otherwise been lost to history. This title is also accessible as Open Access on Cambridge Core, allowing a broader audience to explore the rich tapestry of token culture.

ISBN-13: 9781009015745