Denarius of Elagabalus c. 220 - 222

Curator: Here we have a denarius of Elagabalus, a small silver coin in the collection of the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The immediate impression is of power, though a worn, almost faded power, wouldn't you say? Curator: Absolutely. Elagabalus, a controversial Roman emperor, had these coins struck to circulate his image and ideology throughout the empire. Notice the laurel wreath. Editor: Symbol of victory, divinity, leadership… It’s interesting how such a small object carries so much intended weight and meaning. Look at the god depicted on the reverse side. Curator: That’s Elagabal, the Syrian sun god. Elagabalus, before becoming emperor, was his high priest. So, the coin merges imperial power with religious authority, which was quite provocative at the time. Editor: It is fascinating how an object so humble in appearance speaks volumes about the dynamics of power, religion, and cultural identity. Curator: Indeed, a tangible link to a tumultuous period.