Coin of Seleukos I of Syria, Antioch c. 305

Editor: This is a coin of Seleukos I of Syria, from Antioch. It feels so small, almost insignificant, yet it must have held real power. What symbols do you see embedded within this coin? Curator: This coin is a potent emblem of Seleukos’ reign, invoking Alexander the Great, his predecessor. The imagery, likely a divine figure, isn't just decorative; it's a conscious connection to the legacy and authority of Alexander. Editor: So, it's about establishing legitimacy? Curator: Precisely. Symbols become cultural memory, shaping how people understand power and history. It echoes through time, influencing perceptions even today. Editor: That’s fascinating – a tiny object carrying so much cultural weight. Curator: Indeed. Visual symbols speak volumes.