Stater of Alexander the Great, Lampsakos c. 310

Curator: This is a Stater of Alexander the Great, from Lampsakos. Editor: My first thought? Raw power, miniaturized. It’s incredible how much authority is packed into such a small, golden disc. Curator: Absolutely. The imagery is potent. We see Alexander depicted as a helmeted warrior, maybe even drawing on the symbolism of Herakles, alongside Nike, the winged goddess of Victory. Editor: Nike’s presence really drives home the message. It’s not just about conquest, but divinely sanctioned triumph. The coin becomes a symbol of Alexander's boundless ambition, stamped in gold. Curator: And think about the cultural exchange this coin represents, circulating through a vast empire, spreading not just wealth but also this carefully crafted image of Alexander's power. Editor: It’s a fascinating glimpse into how rulers shaped their image, controlling the narrative through these tiny, potent objects. I imagine people holding this and dreaming of triumph. Curator: Exactly, and its survival speaks volumes— a tangible link to an era defined by larger-than-life figures. Editor: Agreed. This stater isn't merely a coin; it's a whisper of a legend.