Sestertius of Trebonianus Gallus c. 251 - 253

Editor: This is a sestertius, a Roman coin of Trebonianus Gallus. It's intriguing how an object so small can hold so much history. What symbols and meanings do you see embedded in this coin? Curator: Look closely at the laurel wreath. It's not just decoration. It's a powerful symbol of victory, honor, and divinity. Who was considered worthy of such an emblem, and what does it communicate to those who used it? Editor: So, every detail, even something as subtle as a wreath, served a specific purpose? Curator: Precisely! Even in its aged state, this coin shows us a link to the cultural memory of Rome. It is a piece of Gallus himself. Think about who he wanted to be, not just who he was. Editor: I never thought about a coin holding so much symbolism. Curator: That’s the power of iconography, isn't it? It invites us to decode the visual language of the past.