Tetradrachm of Demetrios Poliorketes of Macedonia, Amphipolis c. 306

Curator: This is a Tetradrachm of Demetrios Poliorketes, crafted in Amphipolis. The coin weighs 17.32 grams and features a portrait of the ruler himself. Editor: It's striking, isn't it? The severe profile, the almost defiant posture of the figure on the reverse. It has a very powerful, masculine energy. Curator: Absolutely. The deliberate depiction of Demetrios with horns signifies his divine status, a potent piece of propaganda. Consider the historical context—a leader asserting authority. Editor: And the figure of Poseidon there. It's not just about power, it's about claiming dominion over the seas, a vital element for trade and military might. This coin isn't just money; it’s a statement. Curator: Precisely. And circulating such images, controlling the narrative… the coin becomes a powerful tool in shaping his public image. Editor: Thinking about it today, who controls the images we consume, and what narratives are they pushing? This coin is a lesson in power, representation, and the stories we tell ourselves. Curator: It reminds us that even the smallest objects carry the weight of history and ideology. Editor: Indeed. An object of currency, but so much more.