Antoninianus of Trajan Decius c. 3th century

Curator: Here we have an Antoninianus of Trajan Decius, weighing a mere 4.39 grams, residing here at the Harvard Art Museums. Look closely at the wear, the subtle corrosion. Editor: It appears quite degraded, yet the central figure's profile retains a delicate strength. The composition, contained within that small circular frame, is remarkably balanced. Curator: Indeed. Considering its function as currency, its material composition—likely a debased silver alloy—speaks volumes about the economic pressures of the time. Its value wasn't just monetary. Editor: The materiality, though degraded, contributes significantly to its aesthetic power. The subtle patinas evoke a sense of antiquity and the passage of time. Curator: And let's not forget the labor involved. Minting these coins was a large scale operation requiring an enormous work force. Editor: Seeing the coin in person grants a sense of connection to the past. Curator: Agreed. The Antoninianus represents the tangible intersection of power, economics, and artistry.