As of Gordian III 

Curator: Here we have a coin, "As of Gordian III," housed at the Harvard Art Museums. It offers an intriguing glimpse into the Roman Empire. Editor: It’s fascinating how much decay the material has undergone. You can see the story of its life etched into the surface. Curator: Indeed. These coins weren't just currency; they were tools of imperial propaganda, disseminating images of power throughout the realm. Editor: Given its worn state, it's easy to imagine the hands it passed through, the markets where it was spent. The coin embodies labor, trade, and value. Curator: Absolutely. Consider the image itself: Gordian III, a young emperor, striving to project strength and stability during a turbulent period. Editor: All that ambition, reduced to a corroded disc. It’s a poignant reminder of the transience of power, even in materials we think of as enduring. Curator: A tangible piece of history, connecting us to the vastness of the Roman Empire. Editor: Yes, the coin offers a visceral connection to the past, prompting us to contemplate both the grand narratives of history and the everyday experiences of those who lived it.