Sestertius of Orbiana after 225

Editor: Here we have the Sestertius of Orbiana from the Harvard Art Museums. It's a coin, quite worn, and feels heavy with history. What can you tell me about its significance? Curator: Well, the Sestertius offers a glimpse into the power dynamics of the Roman Empire. Coins like this were not just currency; they were tools for projecting imperial authority. Editor: So, like propaganda? Curator: Precisely. Depicting Orbiana, the emperor's wife, served to reinforce his legitimacy and divine right to rule. How do you think that impacted the general populace? Editor: It's a stark reminder of the control and power structures at play. I’d never considered it in that way. Curator: Seeing it as a tool of political communication helps us understand its broader role in shaping social and cultural perceptions. Editor: I'll definitely look at coins differently from now on!