Drachm of Vardanes I. Parthia c. 40 - 45

Curator: What strikes me immediately is the stark contrast between the regal profile and the coin's worn texture—it evokes a sense of endurance through time. Editor: Indeed. We're looking at a Drachm of Vardanes I from Parthia, housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. This coin, weighing a mere 3.74 grams, offers a glimpse into the socio-political landscape of its time. Curator: The craftsmanship is quite interesting. The beaded border frames the ruler's image, composed of linear elements that create a stylized yet powerful representation. Editor: Absolutely, and the inscription on the reverse side underscores the coin's function as not just currency, but also as propaganda, circulating the image and authority of Vardanes I throughout his realm. How did his subjects perceive this image of power? Curator: What I find most compelling is the economy of line—how few marks are used to convey such a strong sense of identity and power, really. Editor: For me, it prompts reflection on the power dynamics inherent in ancient economies and how symbols of authority were disseminated. Curator: It's a fascinating object that manages to distill complex notions of power into a very small form. Editor: It certainly gives us a tangible connection to the political theater of Parthia.