Decadrachm of Ptolemy II or III c. 253

Editor: Here we have a Decadrachm, possibly from the reign of Ptolemy II or III. It’s a weighty silver coin, and the profile of the figure on the front seems very regal. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: This coin speaks volumes about power, representation, and even gender. The Ptolemaic dynasty, though Greek, ruled Egypt. The depiction of queens on coinage – like Arsinoe II, Ptolemy II's wife and sister, or perhaps Berenike II on later issues – was a powerful assertion of their authority, even deification. Consider the symbolic weight of this image being circulated and used daily, reinforcing the image of powerful women in a patriarchal society. Editor: So the coin isn't just currency, it's propaganda? Curator: Precisely! In a way, it’s an early form of mass media, carefully crafted to project a specific image of the ruling class. How do you think the depiction of the queen here intersects with contemporary ideas about gender and power? Editor: That’s fascinating. I hadn't thought of it that way before. Thank you. Curator: My pleasure! These objects hold so much more than monetary value.