Sestertius of Philip II c. 3th century

Editor: Here we have the Sestertius of Philip II from the Harvard Art Museums. It's amazing to hold a piece of currency that was actually used! What strikes me is how this object, seemingly small, served as a powerful tool for disseminating a ruler’s image. What do you think? Curator: Absolutely! Coins like this were miniature billboards. The portrait wasn't just about likeness; it was about projecting power and legitimacy to a vast audience. Think about the messages embedded: what does his attire communicate about his status? Editor: I suppose the detail in such a small space would have signaled a certain level of sophistication and wealth. It’s fascinating how this tiny object played such a big role in political communication. Curator: Precisely. And consider where these circulated – markets, military camps, public events. Each transaction was a reminder of Roman authority and the Emperor’s presence. Editor: It really puts a new perspective on the power of images. I'll never look at a coin the same way again.