Antoninianus of Otacilia Severa 

Editor: This is an antoninianus, a Roman coin, of Otacilia Severa. It's fascinating to hold a piece of history like this in your hand. What strikes me is how this tiny coin immortalizes her image. What symbols do you see at play here? Curator: The act of placing her portrait on currency underscores her power and legitimacy, but what's more potent is the imagery on the reverse. We see Pudicitia, the embodiment of modesty, seated. Can you see how this visual echoes cultural ideals? Editor: So, by linking Otacilia to Pudicitia, the coin attempts to associate her with traditional Roman virtues? Curator: Precisely! It's a strategic deployment of symbolism, linking her reign to established values. The coin then becomes a subtle piece of propaganda. Editor: That makes perfect sense. I never thought of a coin having such persuasive power. Curator: Indeed. These coins offer a glimpse into the stories a culture tells itself about its leaders.