Sestertius of Alexander Severus 

Editor: This is a Sestertius coin of Alexander Severus, currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums. It looks like a bronze piece, heavily patinated. It's incredible to think about this object being circulated in the Roman Empire! What can you tell me about its historical significance? Curator: The Sestertius provides insight into imperial power. The coin served as propaganda, circulating the emperor’s image and reinforcing his authority. How do you think its function as currency impacts our interpretation? Editor: I guess I never really thought about money as propaganda. I suppose because it seems so functional. Curator: Exactly! Everyday objects can be powerful communicators of political and social values. This coin highlights the intersection of art, economics, and imperial power in ancient Rome. Editor: That's a really fascinating connection. I'll definitely be looking at coins differently from now on.