Sestertius of Otacilia Severa 244 - 249

Editor: Here we have a Sestertius, featuring Otacilia Severa. It's amazing to hold a coin like this, imagining its circulation in ancient times. What can you tell us about its historical significance? Curator: These coins served as propaganda, shaping public perception of the emperor and empress. Consider how Otacilia Severa is depicted; idealized, powerful. How does this image reinforce the Roman Empire's power structures? Editor: So, it's not just currency, but also a message? Curator: Precisely! The coin's imagery, including inscriptions, promoted imperial ideology. It's a tangible artifact reflecting the political and social climate of its time, influencing and reflecting public sentiment. Editor: I never thought of it that way before. Fascinating! Curator: Indeed. It reveals the intersection of art, power, and public opinion in antiquity.