Coin of Philip II of Macedonia c. 359

Curator: Here we have a coin of Philip II of Macedonia, a ruler who reigned in the 4th century BCE. Looking at this artifact, I'm struck by its diminutive scale, yet it feels monumental somehow. Editor: I agree. It's a humble object carrying immense weight. The coin itself—the metal, the method of production—speaks to the economic structures and imperial ambitions of Philip's Macedonia. Curator: Absolutely. Its creation involved mining, metallurgy, and the skilled labor of die engravers. This coin represents a confluence of resources and expertise, all channeled towards projecting power. I see a horse and rider. Editor: The horse is a powerful symbol, certainly. It’s also an explicit assertion of masculine power and control, reflecting a patriarchal society that valued conquest and military might. Coins served as propaganda. Curator: It is also a standardized unit of value and a token of exchange that facilitated trade and solidified Philip's control over resources and labor. Editor: Indeed. And that small detail – the horse and rider – connects directly to broader themes of social hierarchy and dominance. Food for thought! Curator: It certainly is.