Stater of Onasi c. 450

Editor: Here we have a Stater of Onasi. It's a weighty little coin, at nearly 11 grams, and seems to be made of a dull silver. What symbols are present here? Curator: Look closer. Notice the tortoise. What might that represent? In many cultures, the tortoise symbolizes longevity, stability, and order. Its shell is a microcosm of the universe. Editor: So, this coin isn't just currency, but a symbol of a stable, long-lasting society? Curator: Precisely. Currency is more than just a medium of exchange. It’s a cultural artifact, imprinted with aspirations, beliefs, and values of the society that created it. We're seeing a cultural fingerprint here. Editor: I never thought of money in that way before. Thanks!