As of Gordian III 

Editor: This is a coin, "As of Gordian III," housed at the Harvard Art Museums. It's small and quite worn. What stories do you think it holds? Curator: It's fascinating how such a humble object can speak volumes about power and belief. This coin isn't just currency; it's a carefully constructed image of Gordian III, intended to project authority. Editor: So, the imagery on the coin served a purpose beyond just identification? Curator: Absolutely. Consider how the ruler is depicted – what symbols are used? They're embedded with meaning, drawing on cultural memory and shared understandings of leadership. Each element aims to instill confidence and project a certain image of Roman strength and stability. Do you see any symbols that stand out to you? Editor: It does make you wonder what other messages were meant to be sent. Curator: Indeed. This coin is a potent example of how art and power are intertwined.