Drachm of Ariobarzanes I 96 BCE-63 BCE

Curator: Here we have a Drachm of Ariobarzanes I, a silver coin currently held in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Its somber metallic gray, punctuated by subtle light play, feels ancient, almost ghostly. What symbols might unlock its mysteries? Curator: Indeed. One face bears the profile of Ariobarzanes himself, wearing a diadem, a symbol of his kingship. The other depicts Athena, goddess of wisdom and warfare, holding a spear and shield. Editor: The Athena imagery speaks volumes, legitimizing his rule through association with power and intellect—a powerful statement for the time. Curator: Observe how the engraver uses line and relief to convey depth and texture, transforming a simple disc into a potent symbol of authority. The strategic use of silver also lends it a sense of permanence. Editor: I find it remarkable how a tiny object can carry such cultural weight across millennia, whispering stories of kings and gods. Curator: Yes, the Drachm reveals the complex interplay between art, power, and belief. Editor: A fascinating artifact, indeed.