Stater of Philip II of Macedonia, Pella c. 336

Editor: Here we have the Stater of Philip II of Macedonia, a gold coin. One side shows a profile of a man, maybe Philip, and the other, a chariot. What do you see in this piece, considering its context? Curator: These coins are powerful statements. They weren't just currency; they were propaganda. Philip used them to broadcast his image and victories throughout the Greek world. The chariot, a symbol of victory, subtly connects him to the glory of the Olympic games. Who gets to be on the money, and what message does it send? Editor: So, it’s about more than just money, it’s about controlling the narrative. Curator: Exactly! It shows how art and power are often intertwined, even on something as small as a coin. Editor: This makes me see the coin not just as currency, but as a political artifact.