Half Stater of Croesus of Lydia c. 561

Editor: Here we have a Half Stater, a coin made by Croesus of Lydia. It looks small, like a smooth pebble, but I guess it's more valuable. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Well, it's more than just money; it whispers of a pivotal moment in history when coinage standardized trade, altering civilizations forever. Imagine the weight of an empire resting on this little nugget. Editor: So it’s about the power it represents? Curator: Precisely! And about the stories it could tell, if only it could speak. Think of the hands it's passed through! Editor: I hadn't thought of that; it is pretty amazing to consider its significance. Curator: Absolutely, and there is always more to discover.