Coin of Nicopolis under Gallienus 253 - 268

Editor: This is a coin of Nicopolis under Gallienus, its weight is just under 6 grams, residing in the Harvard Art Museums. It looks very corroded and worn. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: The coin’s damaged surface serves as a palimpsest, obscuring the original design while simultaneously revealing the effects of time. Note the flattening of the relief, how it undermines our ability to perceive depth and volume. Editor: So, it’s about the degradation of the coin itself and what that visually communicates? Curator: Precisely. The debasement of the medium mirrors the potential instability of the political era. The inherent qualities of the metal betray the intended image. Editor: I see. It’s almost like the medium is the message, in this case. Thank you. Curator: Indeed. A compelling example of form reflecting content.