Drachm of Antiochos VI Dionysos of Syria c. 144

Curator: This is a silver drachm of Antiochos VI Dionysos of Syria, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. What strikes you about it initially? Editor: The sheer historical weight of something so small and unassuming. To think of all the hands it passed through, all the transactions it facilitated... it's humbling. Curator: Indeed. The image of Antiochos, adorned with ivy, speaks to a connection with Dionysos, a powerful symbol of kingship, divine ancestry and Hellenistic cultural aspirations. Editor: I'm drawn to the power dynamics embedded in this object. Who controlled its distribution? Who benefited from its value? Currency is never neutral, it’s a social and political language. Curator: Absolutely. The imagery and material of the coin worked together to promote the ruler’s image. It’s a glimpse into a complex political landscape. Editor: Looking at this coin has given me a deeper appreciation for the narratives we build through objects, and how they shape our understanding of history. Curator: I agree. It’s a potent reminder of the enduring power of symbols, and their ability to resonate across millennia.