Coin of Octavian, Uncertain Mint, Italy c. 38 BCE

Curator: Here we have a coin issued by Octavian, from an uncertain mint in Italy. The 19.58-gram artifact now resides in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It looks surprisingly well-worn, like it's passed through countless hands, each with their own story. Curator: Indeed. Consider its role beyond mere currency. It's a form of propaganda, a tool used to disseminate Octavian's image and assert his authority. The very act of producing and distributing these coins reinforced his power structure. Editor: The materiality speaks to that power, doesn’t it? The bronze or copper alloy, the weight of it, it’s a tangible assertion of control over resources and labor. Curator: Precisely. And thinking about circulation, each coin served as a constant reminder of the ruling authority, shaping public perception and reinforcing societal hierarchies. Editor: Studying the coin's wear and tear also prompts contemplation on the socioeconomic status and social context of those who utilized it in trade or daily exchange. Curator: It is a stark and fascinating look into the material culture of the ancient world. Editor: Absolutely, a lasting monument to its time.