Tetradrachm of Philip II of Macedonia, Pella c. 342

Editor: So, here we have a silver Tetradrachm of Philip II of Macedonia. Talk about ancient bling! It looks like it's made of silver. What strikes you most when you see it? Curator: Oh, definitely the intimate scale juxtaposed with its grand ambition. A king immortalized on a coin, how wonderfully ironic! You know, it makes me wonder, did Philip ever flip one of these to make a decision? Or perhaps use it as a worry stone? Editor: Haha! I never thought about it like that. So, what is this telling us about Philip II? Curator: Well, the imagery! The laurel wreath—a symbol of victory. And the horseman! A nod to Macedonian military prowess. It’s pure propaganda, shrunk to fit in your pocket. And look at the wear; countless hands have touched this piece. It's like holding history itself. What a thought. Editor: That is fascinating. It is pretty amazing to think about who could've held this coin. Curator: Exactly! It makes you consider your own legacy.