As of Antoninus Pius c. 2th century

Editor: Here we have a coin, "As of Antoninus Pius," currently housed in the Harvard Art Museums. Seeing it makes me think about how such a small object could represent so much power. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: It's fascinating how a humble coin functions as propaganda. Minting coins bearing the emperor's image was a powerful tool to project authority throughout the Roman Empire. Where do you think these would be most impactful? Editor: I guess everywhere, but especially in more remote regions, where people might never see Antoninus Pius in person. Curator: Precisely! This coin isn't just currency; it's a carefully crafted message of imperial power circulated widely. Editor: I hadn't considered its reach beyond the economic. Thank you! Curator: My pleasure! It's always good to think about the political weight of art.