Denarius of Septimius Severus c. 203 - 208

Curator: This is a Denarius of Septimius Severus, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. The artistry is incredible considering its scale. Editor: Its worn surface speaks volumes. I am immediately struck by how this small object represents power, wealth, and the vast social structures of the Roman Empire. Curator: Absolutely. Coins like these were vital tools of propaganda, circulating not only as currency but also as constant reminders of the emperor's image and authority. Septimius Severus, in particular, used coinage to solidify his legitimacy after a period of civil war. Editor: You can see the formal elements employed to project that power: the clear, precise lines of his portrait, the deliberate inscription framing his image. Every aspect is designed to convey strength and stability. Curator: And we shouldn't overlook the figure on the reverse, likely a representation of Pax, the Roman goddess of peace, reflecting Septimius Severus's aspirations for his reign. Editor: A fascinating glimpse into the intersection of art and politics in the Roman world. Curator: Precisely. This coin offers a window into understanding how power was negotiated and maintained through visual representation.