Sestertius of Maximinus I 

Editor: Here we have a Sestertius of Maximinus I. Given the title, I’m guessing Maximinus himself was the artist. I’m curious about the imagery, particularly on the reverse side. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: This coin offers a powerful glimpse into the construction of imperial power and the anxieties surrounding it. Maximinus Thrax, a soldier of Thracian-Gothic origin, rose through the ranks and was proclaimed emperor, challenging the established Roman aristocracy. This coin, therefore, becomes a form of propaganda. Editor: Propaganda, how so? Curator: Consider the imagery. What messages are being conveyed through the portrait and the scene on the reverse? What does it tell us about Maximinus’s attempts to legitimize his rule and project power in a society grappling with social and political tensions? Editor: I see, the coin isn't just currency; it's a statement. Curator: Precisely. Examining such artifacts enables us to understand how those in power used visual media to shape perceptions and consolidate control in times of upheaval.