Coin of Demetrios I of Syria c. 162

Editor: So, this is a coin of Demetrios I of Syria. It is quite damaged, but I find it beautiful because of the signs of age. What can you tell me about this work? Curator: This coin is a powerful, albeit small, artifact. It speaks to the power dynamics of its time, doesn't it? Who gets to be represented, whose image is currency? Demetrios I, a Seleucid king, literally stamped his authority onto the economic system. Editor: So, it is about how power and identity are intertwined? Curator: Exactly. Consider the message it sends, and who benefits from such representation. Even the damage speaks of its long journey through history. It's a potent reminder that even seemingly small objects can tell big stories. Editor: I hadn't thought of it that way. That gives me a lot to think about.