Sestertius of Otacilia Severa 244 - 249

Curator: Here we have a sestertius featuring Otacilia Severa. Editor: It's quite worn, yet the portraits retain a stern solemnity despite the corrosion. Curator: Precisely. The very substance of this coin whispers of power and authority. The radiate crown she wears associates her with the sun, an enduring symbol. Editor: I am drawn to the composition; the strong profile on one side balanced by the standing figure on the other. It’s an early form of visual language. Curator: It is! The figure on the reverse embodies Pax, goddess of peace, an embodiment of the emperor's aspirations for the realm. Editor: It’s impressive how an object so small can carry so much weight, historically and symbolically. Curator: Indeed. This coin connects us to the visual culture of an ancient empire.