Coin of Ptolemy V, Alexandria c. 205

Curator: This is a coin attributed to Ptolemy V Epiphanes, ruler of Egypt, now held in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Wow, it looks like it has been at the bottom of the sea for centuries. A bit eerie, actually. Curator: Indeed, the coin's material is about 17 grams, and the green patina is very interesting. We can assume that the verdigris is the effect of centuries of oxidation. Editor: It makes me think about all those forgotten empires, doesn't it? It is a portal to another world and it makes you wonder about the hands that have held this coin. Curator: These coins, beyond their value, were used for propaganda: one side features Ptolemy V's portrait, while the other depicts an eagle. Editor: So, power on one side, and the symbol of power on the other. It's a tiny object with enormous weight. Curator: Exactly. It embodies the intersection of political power and artistic representation. Editor: Well, I'm lost in time now, thinking about pyramids and the sun. Curator: Then our journey was a successful one.