Coin of Mithradates VI, Amisos (Pontos) c. 2th century

Editor: Here we have a silver coin of Mithradates VI, from Amisos in Pontos. It’s small, quite worn, and yet, there's something regal about it. What do you see in this tiny window into the past? Curator: Oh, this coin whispers stories, doesn’t it? Look at the deliberate placement of imagery, and it feels more like a carefully curated portrait than mere currency. The Gorgon’s head, a symbol of protection, juxtaposed with the eagle, representing power. What a clever way to scream, "I’m here, I’m in charge, and I’m not to be messed with!" It’s almost humorous, isn’t it, this miniature declaration of dominance? Editor: It really does feel like a personal statement, shrunk down and distributed. Curator: Exactly! Power in your pocket, quite literally. I find it refreshing when art can make you chuckle while simultaneously imparting a bit of historical insight.