Drachm of Antiochos IV Epiphanes of Syria c. 175

Editor: This is a Drachm coin, dating back to Antiochos IV Epiphanes of Syria. Looking at it, I am struck by how much history is held in such a small object. What stories do you see in this coin? Curator: Well, imagine holding a tiny billboard of power. See how Antiochos placed himself on one side, immortalized in silver? The other side depicts Zeus, suggesting divine legitimacy. He's basically saying, "I'm in charge, and the gods agree." Pretty neat, right? Editor: It is! I hadn't thought about it as a message. I was focusing on the artistry, the figures in relief. Curator: Exactly! These coins were propaganda, pocket-sized assertions of authority. What a clever and enduring way to rule. Editor: I’ll never look at a coin the same way again. Thanks!