Sestertius of Gordian III c. 3th century

Editor: This is a sestertius featuring Gordian III. It's heavy, about 20 grams, and you can see the wear and tear on the copper. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Well, consider the production itself. Each strike of the die represents labor, resources, and the emperor's power made tangible. The coin’s value resided not just in the metal, but in its role within the Roman economy. What does that imply about the circulation of power in that era? Editor: I guess it’s about how something small and seemingly insignificant could be used to exert control over the masses. This small item speaks volumes about larger systems. Curator: Precisely! And don't forget the material—bronze was common. It shows that the power it conveyed was for all of the Roman Empire, accessible to most. Editor: That’s a perspective I hadn’t considered. Looking at art through the lens of production definitely changes things.