Coin of Alexander the Great, Miletos c. 323

Editor: Here we have a coin of Alexander the Great, minted in Miletos! It’s surprisingly small, but I find the imagery on both sides so detailed. What’s the significance of portraying rulers on currency? Curator: Coins like these weren't just currency; they were powerful tools of propaganda. The image of Alexander, often depicted as a god or hero, helped to solidify his authority across a vast empire. Consider how this imagery might have been received in different regions. Did it promote unity, or resistance? Editor: That's a great point! It highlights the power of art to shape political landscapes and control the narrative. Curator: Exactly. And how museums display and interpret these objects today continues to shape our understanding of that power. Editor: I never considered how much the presentation in museums affects my experience! Thank you.