Coin of Tarsus under Caracalla c. 188 - 217

Editor: Here we have a Coin of Tarsus under Caracalla, located at the Harvard Art Museums. It's a striking object, weathered by time. How do we interpret its historical significance? Curator: This coin isn’t just money; it's propaganda. Caracalla, through the mint of Tarsus, controlled the imagery circulating among the populace. Consider the choices in the portrait, the symbols selected for the reverse. What stories do those choices tell about Caracalla’s ambition and the anxieties of his reign? Editor: So, the coin becomes a political statement almost? Curator: Exactly! By understanding the context and the intended audience, we can unlock the messages Caracalla wanted to project. Editor: That's fascinating; it gives me a new perspective on how to look at historical objects. Curator: Indeed, it’s a lesson in critically examining the power dynamics inherent in even the smallest artifacts.