Sestertius of Severus Alexander c. 3th century

Editor: This is a Sestertius, a Roman coin, depicting Severus Alexander. It's quite small, made of what looks like bronze. What strikes me is how something so seemingly insignificant could be so important. What can you tell me about its cultural significance? Curator: The Sestertius wasn't just money; it was propaganda. Severus Alexander used it to communicate power, legitimacy, and idealized virtues. Consider the imagery – often depicting military prowess or civic duty. This coin's survival connects us to the Roman Empire’s vast economic and social systems. How does this object prompt reflection on contemporary forms of currency and power? Editor: That's fascinating! So, it's not just an object of value, but a tool for shaping perceptions of power? I never thought of coins in that way before. Curator: Exactly. Reflect on who gets to control these narratives, then and now.