Tetradrachm of Seleucus IV c. 187

Curator: Here we have a Tetradrachm, attributed to Seleukos IV, a silver coin weighing just over 17 grams, held in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It feels so austere. The metal is worn, the relief is subtle, but the imagery is striking. What can you tell me about the iconography here? Curator: On one side, we see a portrait, likely Seleukos IV himself, presented as a Hellenistic ruler. The other side typically depicts Apollo, a key deity associated with the Seleucid dynasty, often shown seated and holding a bow. Editor: Apollo's placement is interesting. In many ways, the bow symbolizes power and the ability to strike, but here he is seated, which evokes a sense of thoughtful authority, doesn’t it? It creates a distinct impression of controlled strength. Curator: Precisely. The use of Apollo served to legitimize Seleukos IV's reign by associating him with a powerful and widely respected god. Currency, you see, was a crucial tool in antiquity for disseminating political and cultural messages. Editor: Seeing how these symbols were deployed to bolster power, it really highlights the enduring human need to connect with symbols that speak to our core beliefs and aspirations.