Denarius of Faustina II 161 - 176

Editor: This is a Denarius coin of Faustina II, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. It looks well-worn, almost ghostly. What stands out to you in its form? Curator: Observe the relief. The portrait's profile, though aged by time, reveals a deliberate emphasis on classical features. The reverse mirrors this structural clarity with its allegorical figure. The composition is designed for legibility, even at this scale. Editor: So, the value is in the clean design, even with the coin’s wear? Curator: Precisely. The aesthetic intention remains discernible despite the degradation of the material surface. The structure still communicates power. Editor: Interesting, I see that now. Thanks for pointing it out! Curator: My pleasure. It is a lesson in the enduring language of form.