Coin of Colybrassos under Valerian c. 253 - 260

Editor: This is a coin of Colybrassos under Valerian, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. Given its age, the wear and tear are striking. What kind of stories does this coin whisper to you? Curator: This coin speaks volumes about power, identity, and control within the Roman Empire. We see Valerian using coinage to project authority and solidify his image, even in a distant city like Colybrassos. How does this attempt at control relate to contemporary issues of representation and cultural imperialism? Editor: That’s a great point. So even something as seemingly insignificant as a coin can reveal complex power dynamics at play? Curator: Precisely! Consider how access to resources and representation shapes social structures. This coin isn't just currency; it's a potent symbol of Roman dominance, a piece of propaganda circulating through daily life. Editor: I never thought about it that way. This really highlights how art history can intersect with contemporary social and political issues.