Antoninianus of Tetricus I c. 3th century

Editor: This is an Antoninianus coin of Tetricus I from the Harvard Art Museums. It's quite small, and the green patina gives it a sense of age and history. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: The coin speaks volumes about the political fragmentation of the Roman Empire in the late 3rd century. Coinage was a powerful tool for projecting authority. How do you think a ruler like Tetricus, who briefly controlled a breakaway "Gallic Empire," would have used this imagery to legitimize his power? Editor: Maybe by associating himself with traditional Roman symbols? Curator: Exactly! And who does the imagery on the coin represent, and what does it say about the intended audience? It's a fascinating look at how power was negotiated through visual culture in a time of crisis. I see how the imagery would legitimize his power. Editor: I hadn't considered it in that way. Thanks!