Coin of Alexander the Great, "Amphipolis" c. 336

Editor: This is a coin of Alexander the Great from Amphipolis. It looks worn and small, but I can still make out some of the images. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: I am intrigued by the potent symbolism on such a small object. The image of Alexander as Herakles, a demigod, highlights how leaders can manipulate their image. How does this coin shape our understanding of power dynamics at the time? Editor: That’s fascinating! I hadn’t considered how the imagery serves a political purpose. I learned a lot about the intersection of art and power! Curator: Me too, how visual representation can shape perceptions of authority.