Sestertius of Alexander Severus c. 3th century

Curator: Here we have a sestertius, a Roman coin, of Alexander Severus. I'm immediately drawn to its earthy materiality, that copper alloy. Editor: Its worn surface speaks of power and authority, yet the coin itself seems so fragile now. The profile portrait, it’s like a ghost of leadership, faded but still present. Curator: The process of striking coins like this was a careful balance between standardization and the engraver's skill. Its form gave rise to its function as currency and propaganda. Editor: I think the figure on the reverse, raising his hand, connects directly to the idea of divine authority. It's a visual language crafted to legitimize rule. Curator: Precisely. It's fascinating how such small objects can reveal so much about an empire's economy, labor practices, and symbolic values. Editor: Seeing these now, divorced from their time, it makes you consider the layers of meaning embedded in everyday objects. They truly are cultural artifacts.