Drachm of Alexander the Great, 'Colophon' c. 319

Curator: Here we have a Drachm of Alexander the Great, minted in Colophon. It's a small, silver coin, weighing just under four grams. Editor: It’s incredible to think of the labor involved in producing such a small object, the mining, refining, and striking—all contributing to its value as a tool of imperial expansion. Curator: Exactly, these coins were not just currency; they were instruments of power. The image of Alexander helped to project his authority across a vast empire. Editor: And let's not overlook the material itself. The inherent value of silver, the labor, and the standardized imagery legitimized trade and projected political strength, transforming not only the Greek but also the Persian economy. Curator: Indeed. The imagery, carefully controlled and widely circulated, played a crucial role in shaping public perception of Alexander and his conquests. Editor: It's amazing how such a tiny object reveals so much about the workings of power and material culture in the ancient world. Curator: A tangible link to a pivotal moment in history.