Stater of Agathokles,Tyrant of Syracuse c. 300

Editor: This is the Stater of Agathokles, Tyrant of Syracuse. It's pretty small, but I'm struck by how much power this little coin represents. What can you tell me about it? Curator: This coin is fascinating as a piece of political propaganda. It was issued to legitimize Agathokles's rule. What do you notice about the imagery? Editor: Well, on one side there’s a figure in a helmet and on the other, a griffin. Curator: Exactly. The helmeted figure likely represents Syracuse itself, while the griffin symbolizes power and vigilance. The choice of imagery wasn't accidental; it projected authority and associated Agathokles with established symbols of strength. Does that change how you see the coin? Editor: Definitely. It’s less about currency and more about branding. Thanks! Curator: Precisely! It shows how even everyday objects can be tools of political messaging, and that legacy continues today.