Denarius of Septimius Severus c. 197

Curator: Here we have a denarius, a Roman silver coin, of Septimius Severus. The weight of this coin is just over 3 grams. Editor: It's so worn! But I can still make out the emperor's determined gaze. And on the other side, that powerful image of him on horseback, a clear symbol of imperial authority. Curator: Exactly! These coins served as propaganda, circulating images tied to power structures. The very act of minting coins underscored imperial control and wealth distribution. How do you see that playing out here? Editor: Well, the horse echoes conquest, dominion, and the emperor's perceived strength. The coin becomes a small but potent tool for reinforcing his legitimacy, visually embedding it within daily life. Curator: And consider the message it sends to a diverse populace, often struggling under Roman rule. It's a constant reminder of who is in charge, isn't it? Editor: Absolutely, a visual manifestation of power dynamics. What stories it could tell if it could speak! Curator: Indeed. I appreciate how this object makes visible the ways in which symbolism and power intertwine.