Antoninianus of Valerian I c. 3th century

Curator: Here we have an Antoninianus of Valerian I, currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums. It is a coin of 2.46 g weight minted during his reign. Editor: Immediately, I'm struck by its verdigris patina—it's like a little world aged to emerald green. Curator: Indeed, this state of preservation is quite common. These coins offer a window into the economic and political landscape of the Roman Empire. Editor: To think of all the transactions, political manipulations, and human stories this little disc has witnessed... it's almost overwhelming. I feel it is an object of quiet resilience. Curator: And it reminds us how carefully crafted imagery can be weaponized for political impact. A simple coin became a propaganda tool, showing the Emperor in all his glory. Editor: Knowing that, it's sobering to consider the weight of those images, both materially and symbolically, especially within the context of history. Curator: It's a reminder that even small objects can carry immense historical significance, acting as tangible links to past power structures. Editor: It's true! And maybe a humble reminder that even mighty empires eventually fade, leaving their echoes in objects like this.