Sestertius of Faustina II 161 - 176

Editor: Here we have a Sestertius of Faustina II, a Roman coin. It looks pretty worn, and I wonder what the images on each face tell us. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Well, each coin is like a tiny time capsule, isn't it? This one whispers tales of power and identity. See the portrait? It’s not just a face, but an idealized image meant to project imperial authority. Editor: So, it's almost like propaganda? Curator: Precisely! And the figure on the reverse, perhaps a goddess, further reinforces that message. Think of it as a carefully crafted brand identity for the Roman Empire, all wrapped up in a little metal disc. It’s amazing, isn’t it? Editor: It is. I hadn’t thought about it that way, as a brand identity. Thanks for making ancient history feel so fresh! Curator: My pleasure! These objects are more than just old coins; they are little windows into the soul of a civilization.