As of Herennius c. 251

Curator: At the Harvard Art Museums, we have a fascinating example of Etruscan artistry: a cast bronze coin, "As of Herennius," weighing just over 7 grams. Editor: Its worn texture speaks volumes, doesn't it? A tangible connection to the past, almost like holding history itself. Curator: Indeed. This coin offers insights into the social structures of Etruria. Its imagery might reflect the contemporary sociopolitical landscape and the identities being forged within it. Editor: So, we’re talking not just about currency, but also about the visual language of power? And could this imagery subtly challenge or reinforce gendered or class-based hierarchies? Curator: Precisely! Coins like this were important tools in shaping collective memory. Thinking about how the Herennius family wanted to be seen—it's a perfect lens through which to examine cultural values. Editor: Right, and seeing it displayed here encourages us to consider how such an everyday object gains new political and aesthetic significance within a museum setting. It's really quite powerful.