Sestertius of Lucius Verus 

Curator: Before us is a sestertius of Lucius Verus, a Roman Emperor who co-ruled with Marcus Aurelius. Editor: The patinated bronze gives a beautiful depth, the worn surface almost obscures the imagery, but you can still discern the profile of the emperor. Curator: Indeed. Verus, often overshadowed by Aurelius, had a reputation for enjoying life's pleasures, a stark contrast to Aurelius' Stoic philosophy. The coin, a form of propaganda, portrays him as a strong leader. Editor: I'm struck by the composition - the circular form, the enclosed profile, the very deliberate inscription acting as a frame. It’s a perfect encapsulation of power. Curator: These coins were integral in disseminating imperial imagery and values throughout the Roman world. They were vital to reinforcing the status of the ruling class. Editor: The coin’s materiality, its wear, reminds us of the tangible connection to a distant past. Curator: Exactly. It's a material testament to the lives and power structures of the Roman Empire. Editor: It’s amazing how much history and artistic intention can be contained within such a small object.