Sestertius of Maximinus I 

Editor: Here we have a sestertius depicting Maximinus I Thrax, currently housed at the Harvard Art Museums. It’s so small, yet holds so much history! What symbols do you see embedded within this piece? Curator: The portrait of Maximinus, even in this diminutive form, projects authority. Coins served as propaganda, visually communicating power and legitimacy. Notice the imagery on the reverse – what feelings does it evoke in you? Editor: It looks like a figure seated, perhaps a representation of power or justice? I'm not sure... Curator: Indeed. Consider how these images were circulated. Each coin served as a constant reminder of Rome's power and the Emperor's image, reinforcing cultural memory. It makes you wonder about its journey, doesn’t it? Editor: It certainly does! Thanks for illuminating the embedded symbolism in this coin!