Stater of Lysimachos, Pella c. 286

Editor: This is a golden stater from Lysimachos, Pella. The artistry is remarkable, especially considering its size. What can you tell us about the labor that went into creating such an artifact? Curator: The process reveals much about the economy and power structures of the time. The mining of gold, the skill of the die engraver, and the distribution of the coin all speak to vast social networks and control of resources. Editor: So, it's more than just a pretty piece of metal? Curator: Absolutely. Think about the hands it passed through, the transactions it facilitated. It represents labor, trade, and ultimately, the king’s wealth made manifest. Editor: That gives me a whole new perspective. Curator: Indeed. Material speaks volumes about its context.