Serrate Denarius of L. Licinius L.f. C.n. Crassus, Cn. Domitius Cn.f. Cn.n. Ahenobarbus, and L. Cosconius, Narbo c. 118

Editor: This is a silver Serrate Denarius, minted by L. Licinius and others, currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums. Its small size is fascinating. What do you notice about the coin's composition? Curator: The most striking feature is the intentional disruption of the coin's edge. This serration, beyond mere decoration, could function as a guarantor of the coin’s metallic purity, negating attempts at plating a baser metal. Note the coin’s relief, achieved through striking, and the level of detail retained despite its diminutiveness. Editor: I see. So the physical attributes are as significant as the imagery. Curator: Precisely. The form dictates function and meaning. Consider how the manipulation of the material itself communicates value and authenticity. Does this change your perspective on the piece? Editor: It does. I had initially overlooked the serrated edges, focusing on the imagery alone. I will pay more attention to the material itself from now on.