Diobol of Agathokles,Tyrant of Syracuse c. 295

Curator: Just look at this diobol of Agathokles, Tyrant of Syracuse! It's currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. The weight is about 1.47 grams. Editor: It feels very primitive somehow. The details are basic, but the gold has a luster to it. Curator: Absolutely, a symbol of power in the palm of one's hand. It speaks volumes about the culture's attitude towards leadership and wealth. How did the political elite utilize and portray that power? Editor: And to think of the artistry involved. The process of minting, the social context of its use as currency, and the implied labor—all fascinating aspects. Curator: Thinking about the lasting impact, it makes one think about the legacy of colonization and the struggle for sovereignty in ancient Syracuse. Editor: Yes, but let's not forget the materiality of the coin itself! It's a tangible link to a distant past, a testament to enduring artistic expression. Curator: Indeed, an amazing piece to contemplate, especially with modern political discourse in mind. Editor: It gives a new perspective on value, then and now.