Drachm of Lysimachos (forgery) c. 4th century

Editor: Here we have a silver Drachm of Lysimachos, a forgery, at the Harvard Art Museums. It looks quite worn, but the details are still fascinating! What can you tell me about its historical and cultural context? Curator: Well, even as a forgery, it speaks volumes. Think about it: someone, sometime, found value in creating this imitation. What does that say about the enduring power of Lysimachos' image and the economic or political systems it represents? Why replicate something unless it holds social or economic significance? Editor: That’s a great point! It’s not just about the ruler, but also about the society that valued the coin enough to fake it. Thanks! Curator: Exactly. Consider the very public role of currency and the layers of meaning, true or false, it carries.