As or Dupondius of Faustina I 147 - 161

Editor: Here we have the As or Dupondius of Faustina I, from the Harvard Art Museums. It's beautiful despite its age. What can you tell me about the cultural significance of a coin like this? Curator: Well, it represents more than just currency. It’s a piece of political propaganda. The very act of placing Faustina I's image on coinage was a statement about imperial power. The coin's circulation extended her image throughout the Roman world, didn't it? Editor: Absolutely. Did the common person view this as art, or simply money? Curator: That's a complex question. It functioned as currency, but also as a constant visual reminder of imperial authority. The line between functional object and artwork was far more blurred then. I'm interested in how its public reception changed over time. Editor: I see. Thanks for the perspective. Curator: My pleasure. It's fascinating to consider the politics embedded within such a small object.