Stater of Alexander the Great, uncertain Macedonia or Greece mint c. 310

Editor: This is a Stater of Alexander the Great, a golden coin from an uncertain Macedonian or Greek mint. It feels so precious, not just for its material, but because it represents such a powerful figure in history. What symbols do you see at play here? Curator: The coin serves as a powerful icon. Note the figure on one side, likely Athena, goddess of wisdom and warfare. Doesn't she remind you of Nike, the winged goddess of victory, on the other side? These images weren't just currency; they were carefully chosen symbols of power, legitimacy, and divine favor, designed to resonate with a broad audience. Editor: So, it's about imprinting Alexander's legacy and values onto something that would circulate widely. Curator: Precisely. Think of how these images perpetuated cultural memory and shaped perceptions of Alexander. It is a fascinating artifact. Editor: It’s interesting to consider the weight of these symbols and their intended effect. I never thought of it that way before.