Denarius of Julia Domna 196 - 211

Curator: The artwork before us is a Denarius of Julia Domna, wife of Septimius Severus, part of the Harvard Art Museums collection. Editor: It appears quite worn, yet the formal elements are still discernible—the crisp profile, the deliberate composition. Curator: Indeed. This coin exemplifies how imperial women used portraiture to legitimize power. Julia Domna's image helped solidify her family's dynasty. Editor: The use of silver is interesting. It speaks to the denarius' function as a form of currency but also as a mobile propaganda tool. Curator: Exactly. These coins were distributed throughout the empire, broadcasting the image and power of the imperial family. Editor: A powerful message rendered at such a small scale, but still impactful. Curator: It offers a fascinating glimpse into how coinage and portraiture can function beyond mere currency.