Antoninianus of Gordian III c. 240

Curator: This is an Antoninianus of Gordian III, currently residing in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: There's an undeniable austerity to it, almost cold—a stark, metallic portrayal. Curator: Indeed. The Antoninianus, a silver coin, features a radiate bust of the emperor Gordian III on one side. The composition centres on the emperor’s profile and the details of his radiate crown. Editor: And what narrative does this object carry, given its role as currency? Coins like these were tools of imperial propaganda, circulating images of power, status, and, in this case, youth—Gordian III was quite young when he came to power. Curator: I see your point, but I believe it's equally vital to consider the artistic merits—the relief work, the formal rendering of power. Editor: Both perspectives offer insight. Examining it structurally is helpful, but viewing it within its historical and political framework reveals layers of meaning. Curator: A balanced approach, then. Perhaps a future display will marry both considerations.