Sestertius of Antoninus Pius c. 156 - 157

Curator: Here we have a sestertius of Antoninus Pius, a bronze coin depicting the emperor himself. Look at how worn it is. Editor: There's a surprising softness to the profile, despite the material's inherent rigidity. It feels almost like a study in bas-relief. Curator: Coins like this weren't just currency; they were propaganda tools, circulating the emperor’s image throughout the Roman Empire and reinforcing his authority. Editor: The composition is interesting. The head occupies most of the space, creating a sense of intimacy. What about the seated figure on the reverse? Curator: Likely Roma, the personification of Rome, a common symbol on Roman coinage. It reinforces the idea of a strong, stable, and divinely sanctioned empire. Editor: Considering its scale, the level of detail is remarkable. It’s a testament to the engraver’s skill. Curator: Indeed, a small object carrying significant weight, both literally and symbolically. Editor: It's fascinating how such a commonplace object can offer insights into both artistic skill and political strategy.