Antoninianus of Gordian III 240

Curator: Look at this ancient coin, an Antoninianus of Gordian III, residing here at the Harvard Art Museums. You can almost feel the weight of history just holding it, can't you? Editor: Definitely. It feels more intimate than grand. The coin's wear and tear almost humanizes Gordian III; he doesn't feel quite so untouchable anymore. Curator: Absolutely, and that's what is so fascinating. The portrait is a symbol of power, the leader's presence stamped for all to see. The other side depicts a figure holding some kind of staff. Editor: A scepter maybe, a symbol of authority, or possibly something more religious, given the era’s penchant for blending political power with divine imagery. Curator: Indeed, all interwoven. Each ruler was trying to legitimize their right to rule, embedding these little stories onto everyday objects. Editor: Makes you think about what kind of legacy we are embedding in our currency today. Curator: Exactly, it's these echoes that I find so gripping. Editor: Me too!