Antoninianus of Gallienus c. 3th century

Curator: Here we have an Antoninianus of Gallienus. It weighs 2.8 grams and is currently housed in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: My first thought? Worn smooth by time and touch. It almost feels like holding a tiny, weathered story. Curator: Absolutely, and remember, Gallienus was Emperor during a chaotic period in Roman history. These coins, mass-produced as they were, became a potent tool for projecting power and stability during times of crisis. Editor: Makes you wonder who held it, what they bought, what hopes and fears they carried with them. A humble artifact, whispering tales of emperors and commoners alike. Curator: Precisely, and it's in that intersection of high politics and everyday life where the true value of this object lies. Editor: It's like a miniature stage where we can see how people navigated such extraordinary times. Curator: Indeed, a snapshot of the past, ready to be decoded. Editor: Beautifully said!