Tetradrachm of Mausolos, Satrap of Caria c. 367

Editor: Here we have the Tetradrachm of Mausolos, Satrap of Caria. It's a small, silver coin, but the imagery feels very powerful. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The coin’s imagery blends Greek and Persian symbolism, revealing Mausolos' complex cultural identity. The facing head, possibly Apollo, hints at Hellenistic influence. The reverse shows Mausolos himself, dressed in Greek style, but with a labrys, a symbol of Carian power. What does this visual blending suggest to you? Editor: It speaks to a negotiation of power, a ruler trying to appeal to different cultural groups, perhaps. I see now how much these symbols can communicate. Curator: Precisely! A single image, rich in cultural memory. It speaks volumes.