Dupondius of Severus Alexander c. 3th century

Editor: Here we have a Dupondius of Severus Alexander from the Harvard Art Museums, a corroded bronze coin. It’s amazing to think of the hands it passed through. What can you tell me about its significance? Curator: Coins like this were powerful tools of imperial propaganda. What messages do you think Severus Alexander was trying to convey through its imagery, and to whom? Editor: I suppose the portraits aimed to project power and stability, while the reverse might depict virtues or achievements valued by the regime. What was its cultural context? Curator: Exactly. In times of peace or crisis, these images, though small, shaped public perception of the emperor and the empire's values. The coin's value also dictated who handled it, influencing whose views were targeted. Editor: It’s fascinating how such a small object could wield such power! Curator: Indeed. Reflecting on its journey through hands and history, we can see how seemingly simple objects become vital components of historical narrative.