Denarius of L. Livineius Regulus, Rome c. 42 BCE

Curator: This is a Roman silver denarius, a coin created by L. Livineius Regulus. The piece is held in the collection of the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's remarkable how much history is captured in such a small object! I immediately think of power, how symbols were used to convey authority. It's like holding a tiny piece of an empire. Curator: Absolutely! The portrait on the obverse is thought to represent Venus, or perhaps a personification of Rome itself. Either way, it's about projecting strength. Editor: And the reverse shows a gladiatorial scene, doesn’t it? Fascinating that entertainment was so closely tied to political messaging, even then. Blood and power – a potent combination. Curator: The imagery here underscores the importance of games and spectacle in Roman society. So, it's a form of currency but also propaganda. Editor: It's an amazing snapshot into the Roman psyche. You know, it's easy to forget that these coins were handled every day, passing through countless hands. Curator: Exactly, it is art meeting life. Editor: Something to ponder, definitely!