Coin of Mithradates VI, Amisos (Pontos) c. 2th century

Editor: We’re looking at a silver coin from Amisos, Pontos, likely minted during the reign of Mithradates VI. It’s small, worn, but still carries the weight of history. What can this tiny object tell us about power and identity? Curator: Consider the coin as propaganda, a tool for shaping Mithradates' image. The lion's skin evokes Heracles, aligning him with strength and divine favor. How might this self-fashioning play into the political landscape of the time? Editor: So it's less about accurate representation and more about projecting a certain persona? Curator: Precisely. Think about the deliberate construction of identity, the merging of local and Hellenistic symbols to solidify power. These coins circulated widely, visually reinforcing his authority and cultural aspirations. Editor: That’s fascinating. I never thought about a coin carrying so much intentional messaging. Curator: Indeed. Objects like these can unlock rich insights into the intersection of power, representation, and cultural exchange in the ancient world.