Diobol of Seleucus II c. 246

Curator: This is a Diobol of Seleucus II, currently residing in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It’s remarkably small, isn't it? The way the metal has worn gives it a tactile quality, whispering stories of hands it passed through. Curator: Indeed. This coin, minted under Seleukos II, tells a story about power, trade, and the construction of leadership in the Seleucid Empire. Editor: It's fascinating how such a tiny object could be a tool for political imagery. It’s more than just currency; it’s a statement pressed into metal. What can we make of the labor that went into producing them? Curator: Well, the imagery here, of course, reinforces the Seleucid dynasty's legitimacy through symbolic representations. It played a significant role in disseminating political narratives across their territories. Editor: So, a tangible piece of propaganda, essentially? The material reality of this diobol speaks volumes about the state's control over resources and communication. Curator: Precisely. It highlights how empires sought to shape public perception. Editor: It makes you think about the lasting impact of these tiny objects. They continue to invite discussion, and the marks of labor are still etched in it.