Coin of Agathokles, Tyrant of Syracuse? c. 4th century

Editor: This is a coin, potentially made by Agathokles of Syracuse. The patina suggests it’s incredibly old. What's so important about a coin, though? Curator: It's about more than monetary value; it’s a statement. Coinage in the ancient world served as propaganda. Who is represented and how? These choices communicated power and legitimacy. Editor: So, Agathokles might have used this coin to tell a specific story about his rule? Curator: Precisely. Consider the imagery: What symbols are employed? Were they meant to appeal to a specific group or convey a particular message? The coin can speak volumes about the socio-political climate. Editor: It’s amazing how a small object like this can offer so much insight into the past! Curator: Indeed. The coin is not merely currency; it is a miniature billboard of its time.