Coin of SInope c. 2th century

Curator: This is a Coin of Sinope, issued under Mithradates VI Eupator. Editor: It's small, of course, and worn, but I see strength in the imagery. Curator: Precisely. We must consider the coin as a form of political messaging. It speaks to Mithradates' ambitions, his perceived power, and the socio-political context of his rule. Editor: Is that Zeus I see on one side? And a stag on the other? What does this choice of imagery communicate about power, gender, and identity during that period? Curator: The Zeus iconography establishes Mithradates as divinely sanctioned. The stag, often associated with Artemis, could symbolize both royal authority and the land's resources under his control. Editor: Considering the patriarchal society, how does this blend of male and female symbolism reflect the nuances of leadership and societal expectations placed upon Mithradates? Curator: It's a potent reminder that even within seemingly straightforward images, layers of meaning related to identity and power can be found. Editor: Indeed. These small objects unlock such expansive understandings.