Sestertius of Severus Alexander c. 3th century

Editor: Here we have a sestertius of Severus Alexander, and it's amazing to see such an ordinary object conveying so much history. What symbols jump out at you? Curator: The portrait, of course, is intended to evoke the power and legitimacy of the emperor. But consider the figure on the reverse – often Pax, or Peace. How might that image have been received by the people, given the realities of Roman life? Editor: So, the coin's symbols serve as both propaganda and perhaps even wishful thinking? Curator: Precisely! It's a fascinating interplay of power, belief, and cultural memory. What do you make of that? Editor: It's a reminder that even mundane objects can be rich with meaning. Thanks!