Coin (AE3) of Crispus, Siscia 320 - 321

Editor: Here we have a coin, an AE3 of Crispus, Siscia. The small size of this object gives it an intimate quality. What can you tell us about its history and significance? Curator: This coin, though small, speaks volumes about power and propaganda in the Roman Empire. Crispus, son of Constantine, was elevated to Caesar, and coins like these were tools to disseminate his image and legitimacy across the vast empire. What do you notice about the imagery? Editor: I see a portrait on one side and some kind of inscription on the other. Curator: Exactly. The portrait is a carefully crafted representation intended to project authority, while the inscription likely reinforced his titles and imperial messages. The act of minting and circulating these coins was a political act, wasn't it? Editor: Absolutely! It’s fascinating to consider how something so small could carry so much weight in shaping public perception. Curator: Indeed. Studying objects like this coin helps us understand the intricate relationship between art, power, and society in the ancient world.