Coin of Antiochos VI Dionysos of Syria c. 145

Editor: This is a coin of Antiochos VI Dionysos of Syria, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. It is quite small, yet it feels monumental. What can we learn from this seemingly humble artifact? Curator: Coins like this one served as powerful tools of propaganda. Minted during Antiochos VI's reign, even these small objects broadcasted the image and legitimacy of the ruler. How might the imagery on the coin have shaped public perception? Editor: It is amazing to think that the symbolism on something this small could project so much power. I never considered coins as political communication before. Curator: Exactly! These coins tell us how rulers wanted to be seen and remembered, and how they engaged with their public through visual imagery.