Tetradrachm of Philip I, Alexandria c. 248 - 249

Curator: This is a tetradrachm of Philip I, the Arab. A fascinating piece minted in Alexandria. Editor: It's so tiny! And yet, holding this coin, I feel an immediate connection to a distant ruler and a whole empire. Curator: Absolutely. Consider the context: Philip I, not of Roman lineage, rising to power in the 3rd century CE. This coin isn't just currency; it's a statement of his legitimacy and power. The imagery chosen would have been very deliberate. Editor: Looking at the reverse, that figure reclining…is that a river god? There’s a certain languid elegance to it. Makes me wonder about the artist and their own life in Alexandria. Curator: Indeed, likely a representation of the Nile. These coins circulated widely, influencing perceptions of power dynamics. How Alexandria, a melting pot of cultures, shaped the Roman Empire itself. Editor: It's like a tiny, portable propaganda machine! Makes you think about who gets to decide whose face goes on the money… who holds the power then, and now. Curator: Precisely. And that image, still resonates today. Editor: Exactly! It’s a solid reminder that even the smallest object can carry the weight of history.