Coin of Salamis, Cyprus under Demetrios Poliorketes, King of Macedon c. 4th century

Editor: Here we have a coin from Salamis, Cyprus, minted under Demetrios Poliorketes. It's small, and the images are worn, but I'm curious about its use as propaganda. What can this coin tell us about power dynamics at the time? Curator: Indeed. Think about how this coin, as a form of currency, infiltrated the everyday lives of people under Demetrios' rule. The imagery, likely chosen to project power and legitimacy, becomes a constant, unavoidable message. What does it mean when the face of power is literally in your pocket? Editor: It's a constant reminder of who's in charge, but also, if it's worn and common, maybe a sign of widespread circulation, therefore acceptance? Curator: Precisely. Or is it simply unavoidable? Even in its worn state, the coin is a potent symbol. It asks us to consider the subtle yet pervasive ways power shapes our perceptions and daily lives. It's a small object, but it raises big questions about agency and control.