Hemidrachm of Demetrios Poliorketes of Macedonia c. 4th century

Curator: Here we have a silver hemidrachm issued by Demetrios I Poliorketes of Macedonia. Editor: It’s amazing how much detail they crammed into such a small circular space, isn't it? The surfaces appear worn but you can still grasp the narrative. Curator: Indeed. On one side, we see Poseidon, god of the sea, a powerful symbol of naval strength. This speaks directly to Demetrios's ambitions and self-image. Editor: I'm intrigued by the almost sculptural quality of Poseidon, emerging dynamically within the confines of the coin, and on the other side Nike stands proud. Curator: Absolutely. Nike, the winged goddess of victory, conveys a clear message about Demetrios’s reign. These symbols would resonate deeply with his intended audience. Editor: It's interesting to think about how such small objects could carry such weight, shaping perceptions of power. Curator: Yes, they reveal so much about the cultural landscape of the time and still communicate with us today. Editor: Precisely. Its testament to their impact that so much can be gleaned from their imagery.