Tetradrachm of Mithradates VI of Pontus 89 - 88 B.C.

Editor: So, this is a Tetradrachm of Mithradates VI of Pontus. It's a silver coin, and I find it fascinating how much history is imprinted on such a small object. What stands out to you when you look at this? Curator: Ah, a face staring across millennia! I see power, but also vanity, don't you think? Mithradates had himself depicted with the flowing locks of Alexander the Great. He's clearly crafting an image, a brand, like any modern leader. Editor: So, it's propaganda? Curator: In a way, yes. It's a declaration of his ambition, a whisper of divine right. The reverse side with the stag and ivy wreath speaks of Dionysus, further associating him with power and the gods. A little blatant, perhaps? Editor: I never thought of ancient coins as carefully constructed messages. Thanks! Curator: Indeed. It's a reminder that even the smallest artifacts can carry the weight of empires and individual ego. Food for thought, eh?