Sestertius of Faustina II 161 - 176

Curator: Here we have a sestertius, a Roman coin, attributed to Faustina II, who, as Empress, held enormous cultural sway. The coin itself weighs just over 19 grams. Editor: It feels weighty, even though it's tiny. The patina of age gives it such a somber dignity. Curator: Indeed, coins served as potent visual symbols. Faustina's portrait, appearing on one side, projected her image and imperial power. Editor: And on the other side, the image of a goddess projects Roman values. It’s amazing how much ideology can be packed into such a small object. Curator: Consider how this object, passed from hand to hand, reinforced the imperial narrative among the populace, shaping their perception of the empire. Editor: A pocket-sized propaganda machine! Thinking about all those hands it passed through gives me chills. Curator: It’s a compelling connection to the past. Editor: Absolutely, a tangible link that helps us reimagine daily life in ancient Rome.