Antoninianus of Valerian I c. 258

Curator: Here we have an Antoninianus of Valerian I, residing here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Oh, I am immediately struck by the small scale of this object. It feels heavy with history despite its humble size. Curator: Absolutely. It's incredible to think of the power this tiny coin once held. On one side, we see a bust of Valerian wearing a radiate crown, and the other depicts a scene I believe represents the emperor's military virtue. Editor: The figure on the reverse seems to be holding a spear or a scepter, which speaks to authority and power, but it's also interesting how worn down the coin is; like its story has been softened by time. Curator: Indeed, its age is part of its allure; a tangible link to the past. Editor: There's a certain melancholy to seeing something so faded, a reminder of the impermanence of power and empires, even those once considered invincible. Curator: A poignant observation, really, that even symbols of emperors can become worn whispers through time.