Antoninianus of Salonina c. 3th century

Editor: Here we have the Antoninianus of Salonina, from the Harvard Art Museums. It’s a small, silver coin, and the wear and tear really speak to its age and history. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Coins like these aren't just currency; they're powerful political tools. Salonina, as empress, had her image circulated widely to legitimize her power and her husband’s reign. Consider how this mass production shaped public perception of her. Editor: So, it's less about artistic expression and more about propaganda? Curator: It’s both. The artistry reinforces the message. The choice of imagery, the inscriptions – they all contribute to crafting a specific narrative and securing political power. What stories do you think this coin tells? Editor: I never thought of a coin having so much to say. Thanks! Curator: It illustrates how art functions within social and political systems to influence perception. Always consider who is commissioning, controlling, and consuming the imagery.