Sestertius of Gordian III 

Curator: Here we have a sestertius, a bronze coin minted during the reign of Gordian III. This example is part of the Harvard Art Museums collection. Editor: It looks so worn! I wonder about all the hands it passed through. Curator: It’s interesting to consider the power of these objects as propaganda tools. The portrait of Gordian would have been widely circulated, reinforcing his image and authority. Editor: Absolutely. And what did it mean for those who weren't part of the ruling class? How did this symbol of power influence their daily lives and shape their perceptions of authority? Curator: The imagery certainly served to legitimize his rule, but also to connect him to the broader visual language of the Roman Empire. A language intended to project stability and strength. Editor: Seeing it now, aged and faded, it’s a potent reminder that even empires crumble, and these symbols eventually outlive their original intent. Curator: Precisely. They become artifacts through which we can examine the past, even question it, allowing us to understand the intricate connections between power, representation, and lasting legacy. Editor: A tangible link to a past that still speaks volumes.