Follis (AE2) of Constantine I c. 307

Curator: At the Harvard Art Museums, we have a bronze coin entitled "Follis (AE2) of Constantine I." Editor: It’s striking how small it is. Looking at it I’m thinking about the details, the relief of the images, all compressed into such a tiny, almost intimate scale. Curator: This coin offers a glimpse into the economic and political landscape of the Roman Empire. It circulated widely, facilitating trade and spreading the image of Constantine. Editor: I’m drawn to the way the material itself speaks to the passage of time. The worn surfaces, the imperfections—they contribute to its aesthetic. Curator: It's a testament to the power and reach of the Roman state, using monetary objects for image-making and dissemination. Editor: Agreed. It's fascinating to think about the coin's formal qualities and how they intertwine with its historical context. Curator: Indeed, a tiny object carrying so much historical weight. Editor: A powerful reminder that meaning resides in both form and context.