Denarius of Caracalla c. 196

Editor: This is a Denarius of Caracalla, a silver coin held at the Harvard Art Museums. It’s incredible to hold a piece of currency from so long ago. What can we learn from it? Curator: Coins like these were powerful propaganda tools. Caracalla, as the "artist," controlled his image, projecting power and legitimacy. Who was the intended audience, and what message was being conveyed? Editor: So, it's not just money, it's a statement? The symbols... what do they mean? Curator: Exactly. The imagery on the reverse, perhaps a sacrificial offering, reinforces the emperor's piety and connection to the divine. How does this imagery shape our understanding of his reign? Editor: I never thought about coins in terms of art and public image. That’s fascinating. Curator: The intersection of art and power is always a potent combination.