As of Philip I 

Editor: Here we have "As of Philip I," a coin attributed to Philip I, the Arab, currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums. It's striking how worn it is, yet you can still make out details. What can you tell me about it? Curator: This coin offers a fascinating glimpse into the public image of a Roman emperor and how that image was circulated. Consider how this small object would have been handled, traded, and seen by countless individuals. What did Philip I want to convey through this portrait? Editor: So, the coin wasn't just currency, but also propaganda? Curator: Precisely. Coins were powerful tools for disseminating political messages and reinforcing imperial authority. The condition of the coin also tells a story about its journey through time and the elements. Editor: That's amazing, I never thought of coins in this way before! Curator: It’s a potent reminder that art exists within, and actively shapes, historical narratives and power structures.