As of Antoninus Pius c. 148 - 149

Curator: Here we have a coin created by Antoninus Pius, aptly titled "As of Antoninus Pius," held in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It feels ancient and heavy, burdened with history, like holding a whisper from centuries ago. Curator: Notice the bas-relief portrait. The line describes the Roman emperor's profile, encapsulating power and authority in that deliberate etching. Editor: It's amazing to think this little thing was once someone's pocket change, connecting them to the vast empire in such a tangible way. Curator: Precisely, the materiality offers insight into economics, trade, and imperial portraiture during Pius' rule. Editor: I’ll be thinking about the hands this passed through and the stories it could tell. Curator: A fascinating object that exemplifies how form and function converge to convey meaning. Editor: It is like a little time capsule you can hold in your palm.