Follis of Crispus, Rome c. 321

Curator: The coin's aged surface evokes a sense of profound history, almost whispering tales from the past. Editor: Indeed. What we're observing is a Follis of Crispus, currently housed at the Harvard Art Museums. Though undated, its materiality—weighing a mere 2.55 grams—speaks volumes about ancient economies. Curator: Look at the linear detailing, the carefully considered arrangement of text around the coin's edge; the way the artist rendered Crispus's profile. Editor: It’s fascinating to think how this small object, circulated widely, functioned as a piece of imperial propaganda, shaping perceptions of power. Curator: Precisely. Consider how its design, though small in scale, communicated authority and legitimacy across the Roman Empire. Editor: Ultimately, such pieces remind us of the intricate relationship between art, power, and the daily lives of people throughout history. Curator: Yes, a compelling study in material culture.