Coin of Antiochos VII Eurgetes of Syria, Jerusalem c. 2th century

Curator: This is a coin of Antiochos VII Eurgetes of Syria, minted in Jerusalem. Editor: It looks worn, but it is still evocative. You can sense the touch of history on this small, weighty piece. Curator: The coin provides insight into the Seleucid dynasty's economic policies and their presence in Jerusalem. The imagery chosen, the weight, and the distribution all speak to their control and influence. Editor: Considering the labor involved in minting these, and how they facilitated trade and taxation, it really underscores how material culture shaped the ancient world. The wear on the metal speaks to its circulation among the people. Curator: It’s a potent reminder that art, even in its most utilitarian forms, is deeply embedded in political and social structures. Editor: Exactly, and how even the smallest object can open up pathways to understanding our economic past.