Coin of Agathokles, Tyrant of Syracuse c. 305

Editor: Here we have a coin of Agathokles, Tyrant of Syracuse. It’s aged and worn, but you can still make out the relief. What symbols stand out to you? Curator: The lion on the coin is particularly striking. Lions, throughout history, have symbolized royalty, strength, and military might. Given Agathokles's ambition, do you think he would use it to associate himself with those qualities? Editor: Definitely! It seems like a clear message about his power. What about the other side of the coin? Curator: Indeed. The images on the other side could represent a deity or some aspect of the city's identity, creating a narrative reflecting Agathokles's vision for Syracuse. What do you make of the coin's material? Editor: It emphasizes the historical weight. The coin is an object that has passed through many hands, carrying those cultural meanings. Curator: Precisely. It reminds us how symbols can speak volumes across vast stretches of time.