Coin of Agathokles, Tyrant of Syracuse c. 317

Editor: This is a coin minted by Agathokles of Syracuse. It's incredible to think that something so small could have had such a large impact on history! What can you tell me about its significance? Curator: It's a powerful symbol, isn't it? This coin wasn’t just currency; it was propaganda. Agathokles, a self-proclaimed tyrant, used these images to legitimize his rule and project power. What do you notice about the imagery? Editor: One side shows a figure's head, maybe a ruler, and the other has a chariot. Curator: Exactly! The portrait likely represents Agathokles himself, linking him to divine authority. The chariot? A symbol of military might and victory. Coins like these are fascinating because they show how rulers used art to shape public perception and maintain their grip on power. Editor: So, it's less about the economic value, and more about the political statement? Curator: Precisely! It reveals the complex relationship between art, power, and the public in ancient Syracuse. Editor: I never thought of coins as political art before. Thanks!