Stater of Alexander the Great, Babylon c. 317

Editor: Here we have a gold stater of Alexander the Great, likely minted in Babylon. Its miniature scale makes it feel surprisingly monumental. What strikes you about this coin? Curator: Well, it’s not just a coin, is it? It's a pocket-sized propaganda piece! The idealized depiction of Alexander as Heracles, juxtaposed with Nike, the goddess of Victory… It’s pure mythmaking. Do you get a sense of that intentional crafting? Editor: Absolutely, the symbolism is potent, even now. I hadn't considered the political messaging so explicitly. Curator: It's a testament to power, rendered in precious metal. Think about the reach of this image, how it circulated and cemented his image. Amazing, isn't it? Editor: It is! This small coin holds such a large story.