Coin of Mithradates VI, Amisos (Pontos) c. 2th century

Editor: Here we have a coin of Mithradates VI from Amisos, a small silver piece. It's amazing to think of all the hands it passed through. What can you tell me about its creation and usage? Curator: Consider the labor involved. Mining the silver, refining it, striking the die – each step reflects specific societal structures and power dynamics. Who controlled the mines? Who were the artisans crafting these images, and what was their status? Editor: So, it's less about the king and more about the people who made his image? Curator: Precisely. The coin is not just currency, but a material record of production, distribution, and perhaps even exploitation. Think about how this small object connects to vast networks of trade and control. Editor: I never thought of a coin in terms of labor before. This is a whole new perspective! Curator: Indeed! Examining the material production reveals a hidden history often overlooked.