Coin of Claudius II c. 3th century

Editor: Here we have a coin of Claudius II Gothicus, currently housed at the Harvard Art Museums. It's fascinating to hold something so old, you know? What strikes me is its weathered appearance, like it’s carrying whispers of history. What do you see in it? Curator: Whispers indeed! It’s like a tiny, time-worn face staring back at us from the Roman Empire. For me, coins like this aren't just currency; they're propaganda, carefully crafted to project power and legitimacy. Look at the portrait of Claudius, those radiate crown. It spoke volumes to the people handling it daily. What story does it tell you? Editor: It feels almost…fragile, but powerful too. I never thought a coin could say so much! Curator: Exactly! Art in miniature, history in your palm. It makes you wonder about all the hands it passed through, doesn't it?