Denarius of Cn. Lucretius Trio, Rome c. 136

Curator: This Roman silver coin, a Denarius of Cn. Lucretius Trio, really captures the drama of ancient power, doesn't it? The coin is housed right here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It feels incredibly austere, almost severe. The worn metal adds a layer of melancholy, evoking the rise and fall of empires, the fleeting nature of... everything, really. Curator: Absolutely! This coin served as both currency and propaganda. Minted by Cn. Lucretius Trio, it showcases Roma's idealized head on one side and a triumphal scene on the other. Editor: So, it's about showing off Roman strength, even in something as mundane as pocket change. Ironic that such a small object carried so much weight! Curator: Precisely. The imagery would have reinforced Roman values and authority, circulating amongst citizens and beyond. It's a constant reminder of their influence. Editor: Looking at it now, it's hard to imagine it once felt shiny and new. It speaks of enduring power but also, perhaps, the hubris that leads to downfall. Curator: A tiny artifact that encapsulates so much history and emotion. It's quite powerful, wouldn't you say? Editor: Without a doubt. It certainly makes you think about the stories hidden within everyday objects, doesn't it?