Tetradrachm of Ptolemy II c. 270

Editor: This is a silver tetradrachm of Ptolemy II, a fascinating little artifact. It's surprisingly heavy and the details are quite intricate considering its size and age. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: Well, imagine holding power in the palm of your hand! It's more than just money; it's propaganda. Ptolemy's portrait, deified, and then that eagle – Zeus's bird, proclaiming legitimacy. It’s a carefully constructed message, wouldn’t you say? Editor: Definitely a statement piece. It's incredible how much they could convey on something so small. Thanks for sharing your insight! Curator: My pleasure. It’s always a treat to consider these echoes from the past.