Drachm of the Koinon of Epeiros c. 234

Editor: Here we have a Drachm from the Koinon of Epeiros, housed right here at the Harvard Art Museums. It's amazing to consider what stories this small coin could tell. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The symbols are rich with meaning. See the image of Zeus? His presence would immediately evoke power and authority for the people of Epeiros. Consider, too, the eagle, often associated with Zeus. Editor: So, these weren't just images; they were carefully chosen symbols meant to communicate something important? Curator: Precisely. The symbols worked to reinforce their cultural identity and shared values. It acted as a memory trigger. Editor: Fascinating. It makes you wonder about the messages we embed in our currency today. Curator: Indeed. Visual symbols are a powerful carrier of cultural memory.