Eighth-Stater of Perikle and Vedevie, Dynasts of Lycia c. 380

Curator: This small coin, an eighth-stater of Perikle and Vedevie, Dynasts of Lycia, presents itself as almost ghostly in its current state. Editor: Yes, ghostly and potent. The image of Medusa stares back, a symbol rife with interpretations about power, gender, and transformation, especially within the historical context of Lycian dynasty. Curator: Exactly. Coinage served as a tool of political and cultural messaging. In Lycia, where autonomy was often challenged, such imagery affirmed cultural identity and dynastic authority. Perikle and Vedevie's choice of Medusa isn't merely decorative. Editor: Indeed. The Medusa’s representation likely served to protect, ward off threats, and assert dominance. Considering Vedevie, a female ruler, the use of Medusa could also challenge patriarchal norms. Curator: Fascinating how a small object can hold such complex narratives about power, gender, and cultural survival. Editor: It really does make you think about the narratives we still choose to project, and how they might be interpreted centuries from now.