Denarius of Julia Domna c. 211 - 217

Curator: Let's consider this Denarius of Julia Domna, a silver coin currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The design is striking; the details, even worn, are remarkable given its age and size. Curator: It’s a tangible artifact, mass-produced in its time, that offers insight into Roman economy and imperial power. Silver, as a commodity, facilitated trade and expansion. Editor: Yes, and the portrait of Julia Domna. Her hairstyle, the drape of her clothing – they’re clearly intended to project authority and sophistication. Curator: Absolutely, each coin served as propaganda, conveying messages about the emperor, Caracalla, through his mother, and his dynasty's legitimacy. Editor: Considering its semiotic function, the imagery speaks volumes about the cultural values and aspirations of the time. Curator: Precisely, examining the materiality and the distribution reveals so much about the Roman Empire's reach. Editor: It’s a testament to the power of imagery and the enduring appeal of classical forms. Curator: Indeed, a small object but with such broad implications about labor, value, and authority.