Coin of Constantius II 337 - 361

Editor: Here we see a coin of Constantius II, an ancient artifact at the Harvard Art Museums. It's remarkably small, yet burdened with history. What can we learn from this coin? Curator: This coin, like all currency, served as a propaganda tool. Images of Constantius II, the emperor, were circulated widely, projecting imperial power and legitimizing his rule. Editor: So, its value was more than monetary? Curator: Precisely. The iconography, the choice of imagery, and the distribution network all contributed to shaping public perception and reinforcing social hierarchies. Do you see how the portrait style reflects imperial ideals? Editor: Yes, I see a stern profile, conveying authority. It's fascinating how such a humble object could carry such political weight. Curator: Indeed. Examining this coin allows us to consider the public role of art and the intricate relationship between imagery and power.