Coin of Sardis under Valerian I c. 253 - 260

Curator: Here we have a coin of Sardis under Valerian I, part of the Harvard Art Museums collection and weighing in at nearly 14 grams. Editor: It’s striking how much weight is packed into this small object. The material looks worn but it still carries such authority. Curator: Absolutely. Valerian's image, rendered in profile, speaks to the power of imperial representation. These coins were not just currency; they were instruments of power, spreading the emperor’s image far and wide. Editor: It's a tangible link to a complex history. I wonder, how did the image on this coin influence or reflect the lived experiences of marginalized communities within the Roman Empire? Curator: That's a crucial question. The imagery, while seemingly straightforward, carries layers of cultural and political significance. It reinforces a visual hierarchy, reflecting Roman values, but also potentially sparking localized resistance. Editor: Indeed. It’s a potent reminder that even the smallest objects can hold immense historical weight and can speak volumes about power, representation, and resistance. Curator: A little object teaching big lessons.