Hexanummium of Herakleios, Alexandria 613 - 618

Editor: Here we have a Hexanummium of Herakleios from Alexandria, made during the time of Abd-al-Malik. It's quite small, and the verdigris patina makes it feel very ancient. What can you tell me about it? Curator: This coin speaks volumes about cultural and political transition. The Umayyad Caliphate adopted existing Byzantine coinage, initially maintaining the imagery as a tool of continuity and control. Notice the persistence of Herakleios' image. Editor: So, it's a statement about power? Curator: Precisely. This coin represents a visual negotiation, a slow shift in iconography reflecting the new ruling power while minimizing disruption to existing economic systems. What do you think that says about the Umayyads' approach? Editor: It's like they're easing into power, using familiar images to gain acceptance. I hadn’t thought about coins in this way before. Curator: Indeed. These objects offer a tangible connection to the past and shed light on complex interactions between different cultures.