Coin of Mithradates VI, Amisos (Pontos) c. 2th century

Curator: This coin, attributed to Mithradates VI of Pontos, feels like a whisper from antiquity. So tiny, yet it speaks volumes. Editor: Yes, there's a certain weight to it, literally and figuratively. Given Mithradates' tumultuous reign, I wonder what messages he intended to convey through this imagery? Curator: Perhaps a declaration of power, seen in the laurel wreath. Or maybe an attempt to connect with his subjects through shared symbolism. I love how these small objects become portals. Editor: Definitely, these coins offered a ruler the chance to promote themselves and their ideals. The figure on the reverse seems almost ethereal, but powerful nonetheless. Curator: It's amazing how something so small can hold so much history. It makes you think about what seemingly insignificant objects from our time might tell future generations. Editor: Indeed. The coin serves as a reminder that even the smallest artifacts can reflect broader historical narratives and societal anxieties, shaping our understanding of the past.