Coin of SInope c. 2th century

Curator: Here we have a "Coin of Sinope," likely from the era of Mithradates VI Eupator. Its 9.23 grams bear silent witness to ancient power structures. Editor: Immediately, I'm struck by its eroded surface, a tangible representation of time's passage and the empires it has weathered. Curator: Indeed. These coins functioned as more than just currency; they were tools of propaganda. The imagery projected power and legitimacy. Editor: Absolutely, and the choice of imagery is critical. Who is being represented, and what message are they trying to convey about their rule? Curator: Coins like this one circulated widely, shaping public perception of the ruler and the state. Editor: It’s amazing to think how such a small object carried so much symbolic weight, reinforcing hierarchies and narratives we still grapple with today. Curator: Reflecting on its long journey from then until now, it's clear that this coin serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of political imagery. Editor: I agree; it invites us to consider the role of representation in shaping our understanding of the past and the present.