Coin of Philip II of Macedonia c. 359

Curator: Here we have a coin of Philip II of Macedonia, residing at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's quite weathered, almost illegible, yet undeniably weighty in its presence. The texture draws you in. Curator: Indeed. Coins like this were not just currency but also potent symbols of power. The imagery chosen conveyed messages about the ruler and the state. Editor: I see a figure, perhaps a head in profile? The composition is simple, almost stark, but that's likely due to the wear and tear of time. Curator: It likely presented the image of Philip II, linking the coin's value directly with his authority and presence. The other side seems to depict a horse, another symbol connected with leadership and military might. Editor: The green patina almost acts as a veil, obscuring the details while simultaneously adding to its historical aura. Curator: Think about how many hands it passed through, what transactions it facilitated. It carries a silent history. Editor: Despite its small scale, the coin demonstrates a mastery of form, and that weathering makes its statement somehow more compelling. Curator: It’s a tangible link to an era, and the ambitions of a king, even in this diminished state. Editor: A poignant reminder of the enduring power of even the smallest object.