Sestertius of Caracalla c. 2th - 3th century

Curator: This Sestertius of Caracalla, residing at the Harvard Art Museums, offers a glimpse into the power dynamics of the Roman Empire. Editor: My first impression is one of stoicism, even severity. The emperor's profile is rigid, and the coin’s worn surface only adds to its solemn aura. Curator: Absolutely. Caracalla's reign was marked by both expansion and internal strife. The imagery on coinage became crucial for projecting a particular image of strength and legitimacy, often masking underlying tensions. Editor: The figure on the reverse side carries a cornucopia, a symbol of abundance, a powerful visual declaration of prosperity that might or might not have aligned with reality. Curator: Right. Coins like this are fascinating artifacts of cultural memory, reminders that even the smallest objects can carry complex narratives about identity, governance, and the legacies of empire. Editor: Indeed. Examining these artifacts allows us to reflect on the enduring human desire to control narratives and shape legacies.