Coin of Perge under Philip II? 247 - 249

Curator: Here we have a coin, likely from Perge under Philip II, residing at the Harvard Art Museums. Its small size speaks to its intimate, everyday function. Editor: Even in its worn state, I find the coin incredibly evocative. The corrosion almost adds a layer of visual history. Curator: Coins were crucial for projecting power. The imagery chosen would reinforce Philip's authority and connect him to both the local Pergean culture and the wider Hellenistic world. Editor: I see a faint figure on one side, perhaps a deity? The symbols are so intriguing, hinting at religious beliefs and political ambitions intertwined. Curator: Indeed. Identifying the specific iconography could unlock deeper insights into Philip's strategies for consolidating rule within Perge. Editor: It's a potent reminder that even the smallest objects can carry immense cultural and historical weight. Curator: Absolutely, and the production of this coin demonstrates centralized power and administration that reached far and wide.