Tetradrachm of Agathokles, Tyrant of Syracuse c. 305

Editor: Here we have a tetradrachm coin from Agathokles, Tyrant of Syracuse. The silver is worn smooth with age, but you can still make out the figure of Nike on one side. What statements about power dynamics do you think a coin like this makes? Curator: It's less about power and more about challenging established norms. Agathokles was a controversial figure, and depicting Nike, a symbol of victory, on his coins was a deliberate act of self-aggrandizement. It challenged the established aristocracy and reinforced his image as a strong, divinely favored leader. How might the coin itself act as propaganda? Editor: It almost seems like a spin campaign. I hadn’t considered how something this small could be such a strong statement. Curator: It served as a constant reminder of Agathokles's authority, circulating among the population and reinforcing his narrative of dominance, wouldn't you agree? Editor: I see your point. I'll definitely be looking at coinage differently from now on!