Coin of Selinus under Herennia Etruscilla c. 249 - 251

Editor: This is a coin of Selinus under Herennia Etruscilla, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. It's amazing to see something so old and worn, yet still holding a portrait. What can you tell me about its context? Curator: Coins, like this one, functioned as powerful tools of propaganda and social control in the Roman Empire. The portrait of Etruscilla signifies her elevated status and projects an image of imperial power. Think about the messages these images conveyed about Roman values and hierarchy. What do you think the placement of her image on currency accomplished? Editor: So, it's not just about trade; it's about visually reinforcing her authority. It's a bit like branding, but for an empire. Curator: Exactly. The distribution of these coins throughout the empire played a crucial role in shaping public perception and reinforcing the legitimacy of the ruling class. It shows how art and power are intrinsically linked. Editor: I hadn't considered the political implications of something as simple as a coin. Thanks!