Antoninianus of Gordian III 241 - 243

Curator: This is an Antoninianus of Gordian III, part of the numismatic collection here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It looks so worn, like holding ancient history in your hand— makes you wonder where it has been. Curator: Coins like these were crucial for imperial propaganda, circulating the emperor's image and messaging throughout the vast Roman Empire. Editor: And there he is, young Gordian. I bet he never imagined his face traveling through time like this, a tiny metal echo of power. Curator: Absolutely, each coin also represents a micro-economy, reflecting trade, resource management, and imperial administration. Editor: What a thought, to condense an entire empire into a coin, small enough to hold and large enough to shape history. Curator: Indeed, it is a reminder of the intricate connections between art, power, and everyday life in the ancient world. Editor: Well, it's hard to forget history with that much age sitting there, isn't it?