As of Commodus c. 191 - 192

Curator: Here we have a coin attributed to Commodus, currently held in the Harvard Art Museums. It's a humble object, isn't it? Editor: Indeed. The patina speaks volumes – a sort of verdigris tapestry hinting at centuries buried, traded, and perhaps lost. Curator: This coin, likely bronze, speaks to the Roman economy and the mechanisms of power. Who controlled the mint, how did they source the metal? Editor: And what did it mean for Commodus to imprint his likeness and name on the coinage? The very act broadcasts authority, influencing how his image was circulated and perceived. Curator: Absolutely. Coins like these weren’t just currency, they were portable propaganda, impacting the perception of the emperor's image and rule. It is interesting to reflect on the labor and access to materials needed to produce such a ubiquitous object. Editor: Considering its circulation, it is easier to see its significance beyond mere monetary value. Curator: Exactly. It brings Commodus, the emperor, to our fingertips, making the history palpable. Editor: I agree; this small artifact offers such insight into Roman history.