Tenth Stater of Nikokles, King of Salamis c. 373

Curator: Here we have a gold tenth stater made for Nikokles, King of Salamis. Editor: It's stunning how something so small can feel so weighty, almost like holding power itself. Curator: Absolutely. The coin itself is a statement. Think about the labor involved in extracting and refining the gold, the skill of the die engraver, and the political message it conveys. Editor: The imagery must have been crucial for Nikokles's image. His portrait on one side, and what appears to be a deity on the other. What kind of influence was he trying to project? Curator: Exactly. The design choices legitimized his rule by associating him with divine power and prosperity through trade and wealth. Editor: Holding this, you're connected to the economics and politics of an ancient kingdom. It makes history feel very tangible. Curator: And for me, it highlights the convergence of material resources, artistic skill, and royal ambition. Editor: I agree. It's a powerful little object.