Denarius of Septimius Severus c. 200 - 202

Editor: This is a Denarius of Septimius Severus, a small silver coin. I'm struck by how such a tiny object could have so much power and influence. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Well, coins like this were vital tools for disseminating imperial power. The portrait and inscription weren't just about identification, they were carefully crafted to project an image of strength and legitimacy throughout the vast Roman Empire. Who do you think was its audience? Editor: Everyone, probably. From soldiers to merchants, it was like a miniature billboard for the emperor. Curator: Precisely. And consider the context of Septimius Severus's rise to power, it came after a period of civil war. So the image of strength projected by this coin would have been particularly important. Editor: That's fascinating! It really puts the coin's imagery in a different light. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure, these small objects often hold very big stories.