Tetradrachm of Alexander the Great, Uncertain Syria-Phoenicia Mint c. 317

Editor: This is a silver tetradrachm, a coin of Alexander the Great, made in a mint somewhere in Syria-Phoenicia. It's incredible to hold a piece of history, a currency that once fueled an empire. What can you tell me about its cultural significance? Curator: Its production speaks volumes about Alexander's ambition. Coins weren't just money; they were propaganda. Consider the image of Alexander himself, deified with the horns of Ammon. How does this public image contribute to his power? Editor: It's like crafting his own mythology. So, the coin served as a constant reminder of his authority? Curator: Exactly. And the depiction of Zeus on the reverse? It reinforces the message: divine rule, power, and legitimacy, all circulating within the economy. The distribution and iconography of these coins shaped public perception. Editor: That’s fascinating. I never thought of a coin as a political statement before. Curator: Think of it as portable art, constantly reinforcing a message about leadership and empire. It’s a brilliant example of how political power uses imagery. Editor: I’ll definitely look at currency differently from now on!