Coin of Nicopolis ad Nestum under the Emperor Caracalla? c. 2th - 3th century

Curator: This coin, thought to be from Nicopolis ad Nestum during Emperor Caracalla's reign, offers a glimpse into ancient Roman provincial life, and it is now held in the collections of the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The coin’s weathered surface speaks volumes; it feels like holding a piece of history etched with the weight of empires. What kind of stories could this coin tell about the politics and identity of its time? Curator: Well, consider the value of currency in shaping perceptions. Caracalla's economic policies, particularly the debasement of coinage, reflect his struggle to fund military expansion and maintain power—a power inextricably linked to his image. Editor: Precisely! Currency as propaganda. The deliberate crafting of a ruler's image to legitimize authority is a narrative that persists across time, influencing how we perceive leaders even now. Curator: Absolutely. This coin is a physical manifestation of those systems, a constant reminder that even small objects can carry significant weight in understanding the dynamics of power and representation. Editor: Looking at this artifact has shifted my perspective. It makes you wonder about the countless hands that held this small coin, each touch a connection to a shared human experience across vast stretches of time.