Denarius of L. Julius Bursio, Rome c. 85 BCE

Curator: Up next, we have a Roman silver denarius. It's an artifact made by the moneyer L. Julius Bursio, residing in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's worn, but the design still evokes a feeling of power. The craftsmanship seems incredibly meticulous given its size and apparent age. Curator: Indeed, notice the intaglio technique used to create the relief. The obverse presents a bust, possibly an allegorical representation. Editor: I'm more drawn to the reverse: a quadriga, a four-horse chariot, signifying wealth and status, but also the labor of animals and humans in procuring the silver and striking this coin. Curator: A powerful observation. The denarius offers a glimpse into the Roman economy and its visual language. Editor: Yes, seeing the coin as more than just a financial tool helps us appreciate the Roman cultural machine behind its making.