Coin of Antiochos IV Epiphanes of Syria? c. 175

Editor: This coin, likely of Antiochos IV Epiphanes, appears worn with age. The portrait and symbols are still visible. What can we learn about the culture that produced this? Curator: This coin whispers of power, doesn't it? Its existence speaks volumes about the Seleucid dynasty's control over its image and economy. How do you think iconography on coinage like this affected the populace's understanding of their ruler? Editor: I suppose it could be a form of propaganda. Did it impact different social classes in different ways? Curator: Absolutely. The elite probably saw it as confirmation of their status, while for others, it might have been the only image they ever saw of their king. The coin becomes a potent symbol of social hierarchy. What does that tell us about the intersection of power and representation? Editor: That the ruling class controls not only the narrative, but the material reality of how they are perceived. Thank you! Curator: Precisely! And hopefully, that encourages us to question who controls the narratives today.