Coin of Akragas under Phintias 

Curator: Let's turn our attention to this Coin of Akragas under Phintias, residing here at the Harvard Art Museums. It weighs just under 6 grams. Editor: The subdued luster of the metal gives it an aura of solemn antiquity. There's a stark contrast between the detailed relief and the coin's worn edges. Curator: Indeed, the obverse displays a detailed portrait, while the reverse features a symbol—a crab, perhaps? It's evocative. Editor: Yes, the crab is a prominent symbol of Akragas, recalling its coastal origins and the significance of the sea in its identity. It speaks of the city's natural resources and trade routes. Curator: The linear inscriptions surrounding it add to the structure, framing the symbol within the coin's circular form. Editor: I find it fascinating how such a small object could carry so much symbolic weight, representing power, place, and history. Curator: It certainly offers a rich glimpse into the aesthetics of a distant era. Editor: And reminds us of how symbols persist, echoing across time and cultures.