Coin of Nicaea under Maximinus Thrax c. 3th century

Curator: Here we have a coin of Nicaea under Maximinus Thrax, held in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It’s incredible, like holding a whisper of history in your hand. The oxidation almost makes it feel alive, doesn’t it? Curator: Absolutely. Coins like these served not only as currency but also as propaganda, disseminating the emperor's image and authority. Editor: I wonder what hands it passed through, what stories it could tell. It makes you feel so connected to the past. Curator: Indeed. The coin reflects the political realities of the Roman Empire, where power was often secured through military might. Editor: It's funny to think about how a tiny object like this could carry so much weight, both literally and figuratively. Curator: Precisely. Studying such objects offers insights into the workings of power, economy, and identity in the Roman world. Editor: And for me, it's a reminder that even the smallest things can hold immense beauty and meaning.