Denarius of Septimius Severus c. 198

Editor: This is a silver Denarius of Septimius Severus, a Roman coin, and I'm struck by how such a small object could carry so much political weight. What can you tell me about how this coin functioned in its time? Curator: This coin wasn't just money; it was propaganda. The portrait of Severus was a carefully constructed image, designed to project power and legitimacy. Consider how the distribution of such coins throughout the empire shaped public perception of the emperor. Editor: So, it's a portable piece of political messaging. Curator: Exactly! The imagery and inscriptions were carefully chosen to reinforce Severus's authority and connect him to Roman traditions. Do you notice anything about the imagery on the reverse side of the coin? Editor: It seems to depict a deity. How did these images influence the Roman perception of their leadership? Curator: They linked the emperor to the divine, reinforcing his right to rule. The coin becomes a tool in shaping collective memory and social order. Editor: That's fascinating; it really changes how I see something as simple as a coin! Curator: Indeed. It reveals the intricate relationship between art, power, and public opinion in ancient Rome.