Denarius of Septimius Severus c. 198 - 200

Curator: This is a denarius, a Roman silver coin, minted during the reign of Septimius Severus. The coin offers a glimpse into the visual culture of the Roman Empire. Editor: It’s striking how such a small object can convey such immense power. I'm immediately drawn to the textures, the worn surface, and the relief work. Curator: Indeed. Coins like these weren't just currency. They were propaganda tools. Septimius Severus used them to legitimize his rule and to project an image of imperial authority. Editor: The deliberate use of imagery here creates a visual language of power. The portrait, the inscriptions... every element tells a story. It's a carefully constructed message. Curator: Absolutely, and understanding that context helps us decode the messages embedded in the imagery—imperial ambition and the projection of dynastic succession. Editor: Thinking about its scale and design has really made me appreciate the aesthetic considerations involved in even the most functional of objects. Curator: And considering the circulation of these coins, we can begin to understand the reach of Roman power and its profound effect on identity. Editor: A tiny object, but a potent reminder of how art and power are intertwined.