Coin of Ptolemy I Soter of Egypt c. 294

Editor: This is a coin of Ptolemy I Soter of Egypt, at the Harvard Art Museums. It looks weathered, but I can still make out a portrait on one side and what seems to be an eagle on the other. How do we understand the symbolism in this piece? Curator: Well, consider Ptolemy's position. He was one of Alexander the Great's generals who, after Alexander's death, claimed Egypt. Depicting himself on coinage, alongside powerful symbols like the eagle, was a deliberate act of self-legitimization. How does this relate to modern day symbolism? Editor: It's fascinating to see how rulers throughout history have used symbols and images to project power and authority. Makes me think about contemporary propaganda and political branding. Curator: Exactly! It's about understanding the narratives being constructed and whose voices are amplified, even now. Editor: That's insightful! Thanks for that perspective.