Drachm of Azes II, Scythia 35 BCE-5 CE

Curator: Let's discuss this intriguing Drachm of Azes II from Scythia. Its creation speaks to the economic and social structures of its time, doesn't it? Editor: Immediately, I notice the worn texture of the metal; it conveys an intense history and the weight of power. What social messages were being communicated here? Curator: As currency, this coin embodies the power of Azes II and the socio-political messages he wanted to convey, like legitimacy and military strength in a kingdom undergoing cultural shifts. Editor: The materiality would have played a role in the economic exchanges but also in reflecting the ruler's persona through the choice of materials and the coin's design. Curator: Right! The figures and script connect to the intersection of Greek, Indian, and Central Asian cultures, mirroring a fluid identity. Editor: Indeed, studying its composition and how it may have been circulated helps us understand these exchanges within the larger networks of consumption and trade. Curator: A small object, yet it holds a wide lens onto power, identity, and cultural exchange! Editor: Exactly, a vital clue into the materials and ideologies that circulated then.