Drachm of Audoleon of Paeonia c. 315

Editor: So, this is a Drachm of Audoleon of Paeonia. It appears to be a small, silver coin. One side shows a helmeted head and the other, a horse. What do you make of this object? Curator: It's fascinating how rulers like Audoleon used coinage. These weren't just economic tools, but powerful declarations of identity and authority. The imagery, from the helmeted figure to the horse, would have resonated with the Paeonian people, solidifying Audoleon’s position. Editor: So, you're saying the imagery had a political purpose beyond just being decorative? Curator: Precisely. Consider where these coins circulated. Each transaction was a mini-advertisement, reinforcing Audoleon’s power and Paeonian identity in a world of competing kingdoms. What lasting impact do you think these images had? Editor: That's an interesting perspective; I had not considered that. Now I see coins can be a form of ancient propaganda.