Antoninianus of Claudius II Gothicus 

Curator: Here we have an Antoninianus of Claudius II Gothicus, a coin dating back to the Roman Empire, now residing at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Immediately, I'm struck by the palpable sense of history and power radiating from such a small object. Curator: Indeed. The coin’s circular format contains, on one side, a profile portrait of Claudius II, surrounded by text, while the reverse depicts a standing figure. The composition feels quite balanced. Editor: Considering Claudius II's brief reign marked by military campaigns, I see this coin as a potent symbol of imperial power and propaganda, circulated to solidify his image and legitimacy among the masses. Curator: Absolutely. The material itself also speaks volumes. The coin's copper alloy composition and the details rendered through the die-striking process are quite remarkable, considering the historical period. Editor: It’s fascinating to consider how this coin served not only as currency but also as a medium for communicating power dynamics. The choice of imagery and the careful rendering of Claudius's likeness all served to reinforce the emperor's authority. Curator: It's a study in miniature, a testament to the enduring power of form and material to convey complex messages across centuries. Editor: Precisely, it reminds us that even the smallest objects can carry immense cultural and political significance.