Coin of Antiochos IV Epiphanes of Syria, Tarsos c. 2th century

Editor: This is a coin of Antiochos IV Epiphanes of Syria from Tarsos. It's incredible to hold something so old. What stories do you think this little coin holds? Curator: Ah, a potent symbol of power and divinity! Notice how even in its worn state, the imagery speaks volumes. The figure, likely Zeus, evokes the king's connection to the divine realm, a claim to legitimacy and authority. Editor: So, the image acted as propaganda? Curator: Precisely! Coins were a primary means of disseminating royal ideology. But consider also the psychological impact; the act of holding the king's effigy, however indirectly, creates a sense of connection, of belonging to a shared identity. Editor: That’s fascinating – it's more than just money. Curator: Indeed. It's a cultural artifact, a memory made material. Each scratch and mark tells a silent story of circulation, trade, and belief. Editor: I never thought of it that way before. Thanks!