Sestertius of Severus Alexander c. 3th century

Curator: Here we have a Sestertius of Severus Alexander, residing here at the Harvard Art Museums. Its weight is approximately 21.46 grams. Editor: It’s intriguing, isn't it? There’s a quiet gravitas to the profile, even though it is worn. The weight in the hand… a tangible connection to the emperor. Curator: Indeed. The Sestertius, particularly under Severus Alexander, circulated widely. It wasn't merely currency; it was a tool of imperial propaganda. These images of the emperor were vital in projecting power. Editor: The seated figure on the reverse – what do you make of her? There's a sense of stability and beneficence implied. Curator: Precisely. These weren't just portraits; they were calculated messages. They showed the emperor's virtues and legitimised his reign for those who handled the coin. Editor: It's remarkable how much cultural weight such a small object can carry across millennia. Curator: And still does, reminding us of the power of imagery in shaping public perception and historical narratives.