Antoninianus of Tetricus I 270 - 273

Editor: We're looking at an Antoninianus of Tetricus I, a coin held at the Harvard Art Museums. It's small, metallic, and shows its age through the green patina. What does this coin tell us about its time? Curator: These coins offer insights into the visual language rulers used to project power. During periods of political instability, like Tetricus's reign, controlling coinage was a key method to legitimize authority and communicate with the populace. Do you notice anything about the figure depicted? Editor: It’s hard to make out a lot of detail, but there seems to be a figure with a staff? Curator: Exactly. The imagery, though worn, likely alludes to Roman ideals and gods, reinforcing Tetricus's claim to the imperial legacy. Coins like these were powerful propaganda tools, constantly circulating messages about the ruler and his connection to the past. Editor: So, even something this small can reveal quite a bit about political messaging. Curator: Precisely. It highlights how even everyday objects played a role in shaping public perception and reinforcing power structures.