Antoninianus of Gallienus c. 3th century

Curator: Here we have an Antoninianus of Gallienus from the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It appears quite worn, a mottled texture of brown and green oxidation giving it a rather somber feel. Curator: Indeed. Each element, the emperor's portrait, even the lettering, functioned as a symbol of Roman power and authority. This coin, regardless of condition, once visually reinforced the emperor’s divine right to rule. Editor: Considering the scale, the level of detail is impressive. You can almost trace the outlines of his features despite the erosion. The raised relief also catches the light in a very specific way, directing the viewer's eye to certain points. Curator: And that wear is itself a symbol now, isn't it? Of time, of empires risen and fallen, of the shifting values we place on objects. Editor: I agree. It's remarkable how such a small object can hold so much visual and symbolic weight.