Coin of Amisos, time of Mithradates Eupator c. 120 - 163

Editor: This is a Coin of Amisos, from the time of Mithradates Eupator. It's quite small, and the patina gives it this beautiful, aged teal color. What significance did coinage hold in that period? Curator: Coins weren't just currency; they were powerful tools of propaganda. Mithradates VI used his coinage to project power, visually associating himself with Greek gods and heroes, reinforcing his authority in the Pontic Kingdom and beyond. Editor: So, this coin becomes more than just an artifact; it's a statement? Curator: Precisely. It's a tangible representation of political maneuvering and self-fashioning in the ancient world. The images chosen weren't accidental, but meticulously selected to influence public perception. Understanding this context is key. Editor: That's fascinating – viewing it as a form of ancient PR. It really changes how I see it. Curator: Indeed, it reveals the intrinsic link between art, power, and public image throughout history.