Drachm of Ariarathes X 42 BCE-36 BCE

Curator: Here we have a Drachm of Ariarathes X, residing here at the Harvard Art Museums. The coin weighs 4.26 grams. Editor: The first thing I notice is its tactile quality, the worn surface whispering stories of hands and pockets it’s passed through. It feels ancient, almost like holding a small piece of history. Curator: Exactly, and it's more than just a simple object of value; it's a statement of power and legitimacy. Ariarathes X used these coins to broadcast his image and authority. Editor: Power is right; looking at the stern profile, you can almost feel the weight of leadership on his shoulders. Curator: Indeed. These coins also played a vital role in the local economy, facilitating trade and showcasing the kingdom's wealth. Editor: Seeing it now, I almost feel a strange connection. It’s proof that, in some ways, we are all coins, passing through different hands and contributing to the broader flow of history. Curator: A fitting analogy to close our exploration of this remarkable piece. Editor: Beautiful.