Tetradrachm of Alexander the Great, Amphipolis? c. 336

Editor: This is a Tetradrachm of Alexander the Great. It's so small, yet contains so much detail! What do you see in this piece beyond its age and material? Curator: Its symbolic value is immense. The coin isn't just currency; it's propaganda. The depiction of Alexander as Heracles served to legitimize his rule, linking him to mythic heroes and divine power. Editor: So it’s like visual PR? Curator: Exactly! Think of how the image circulated, reinforcing his authority across a vast empire. How does this impact our understanding of the public image of leaders? Editor: That’s fascinating! I hadn’t considered how the imagery was used to shape public perception. Curator: And remember, art like this always operates within specific social and political contexts.