Coin of Alexander the Great, Miletos c. 323

Editor: This is a coin of Alexander the Great, minted in Miletos. Its worn surface hints at a long history of circulation. What can we learn from it today? Curator: This coin transcends its monetary value, becoming a potent symbol of power, propaganda, and the cultural reach of Alexander's empire. Consider how images on coins shape collective memory and identity. Editor: In what way? Curator: The depiction of Alexander on coinage, often associated with divine attributes, served to legitimize his rule and project an image of invincibility. What do you think this did for the people in distant lands? Editor: I hadn't thought about it that way; it's like early social media, shaping a narrative. Thank you! Curator: Precisely! Examining such artifacts allows us to dissect how power operates through visual culture and its lasting impact on history.