Tetradrachm of Alexander III, the Great, Babylon c. 311

Editor: Here we have a Tetradrachm of Alexander III, the Great, likely crafted in Babylon. It’s made of metal and weighs just over 16 grams. I'm struck by how such a small object could carry so much symbolic weight. What can you tell me about its historical significance? Curator: This coin wasn’t just currency; it was propaganda. Minted after Alexander’s death, it presents a carefully constructed image of power and divinity. Notice how it circulated widely, standardizing imagery and projecting Hellenistic rule throughout the conquered territories. How do you think this standardization impacted local cultures? Editor: It probably overshadowed them, visually reinforcing Alexander’s dominance. I hadn’t considered the political power of a coin before. Curator: Exactly. Consider this: How did controlling coinage influence economic and cultural exchange? Editor: I guess it gave them a lot of control over trade and the spread of ideas. Thanks, I have a lot to think about.