Denarius of Septimius Severus c. 206

Editor: Here we have a Denarius of Septimius Severus, and I find it amazing that such a tiny coin could carry so much symbolic weight. How do you interpret its significance? Curator: This coin served as propaganda, circulating carefully constructed imagery of power. Septimius Severus, through his self-portrait and carefully chosen iconography, aimed to solidify his image as a legitimate and powerful ruler. How might this impact our understanding of identity and power? Editor: So, it was like a very early form of political advertising? Curator: Exactly. Consider the social unrest and power struggles of the time. This coin was a statement within that turbulent context, reinforcing his authority through a controlled visual narrative. Its existence raises questions about the relationship between power, representation, and social control. Editor: That’s fascinating. I'll definitely think differently about coinage now. Curator: Indeed. Art offers powerful insight into historical dynamics of race, class, and gender.