Coin of Antiochos X Eusebes Philopator of Syria, Antioch 94 BCE-92 BCE

Editor: This is a coin of Antiochos X Eusebes Philopator of Syria. It is currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. What first strikes me is how worn it looks, a tangible link to an ancient ruler. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Well, consider the coin as a form of political propaganda. It was a means for Antiochos to assert his authority and project an image of power, especially during a turbulent time. Think about the symbolic value imbued in the imagery. Editor: So, beyond being a currency, it was a statement? Curator: Precisely. Its circulation reinforced his legitimacy and, perhaps, shaped public perception. The coin’s journey, from minting to discovery, also speaks volumes about the cultural and political shifts in the region. Editor: I never thought of a coin having so much to say about history. Thanks! Curator: It's amazing what artifacts can tell us about the past.