Tetradrachm of Alexander the Great, "Amphipolis" c. 336

Editor: Here we have a Tetradrachm of Alexander the Great, from Amphipolis. It's amazing to hold a piece of currency from so long ago! What can you tell me about the imagery on the coin and its political meaning? Curator: The coin provides valuable insight into the construction of Alexander's image. Note how it links him to the divine through the depiction of Heracles, subtly reinforcing his authority across a vast, multicultural empire. The standardization of such imagery was key to projecting power. Editor: So, these coins weren't just money, but propaganda? Curator: Precisely. Think about how the controlled circulation of these images solidified Alexander’s legacy and influenced perceptions of leadership for centuries. It’s a fascinating example of art shaping political reality. Editor: I never thought about a coin having such an impact. It's amazing how one small object can tell us so much about power and image making. Curator: Indeed. Analyzing the historical context of even everyday objects transforms our understanding of the past and present.