Coin of Samos under Trajan Decius c. 3th century

Editor: Here we have a coin from Samos under Trajan Decius at the Harvard Art Museums. It's small, but dense, with the Emperor’s profile worn smooth. How do you read this object? Curator: Coins like this aren’t just currency. They’re powerful propaganda. Consider how an Emperor used his image to project power across the Roman Empire. What does that say about Roman control? Editor: So the coin is less about its monetary value and more about its symbolic power? Curator: Exactly! The distribution of these coins visually and materially reinforced Roman authority throughout the vast territories they controlled. It’s a public relations campaign, centuries ahead of its time. Editor: I see. It’s fascinating how a small object can reveal so much about power and control. Curator: Indeed. Examining art like this gives us insight into how empires maintain their image.