The Museum of Cycladic Art and the Alpha Bank Numismatic Collection collaborate for the first time to present the exhibition; ‘MONEY. Tangible symbols in ancient Greece’ (ΧΡΗΜΑ. Σύμβολα απτά στην Αρχαία Ελλάδα).
Extraordinary samples of ancient coinage from the Alpha Bank collection will be presented. The exhibition theme relates to the diverse references and readings of the symbols depicted on coins, from the late seventh century BC into Roman times. The coin is, first and foremost, man’s basic medium of transaction, the means by which people cover their everyday needs and the form in which the State makes payments to honour its monetary obligations.
Coin 1: Silver Tetrahedra of Smyrna (circa 165 BC). Coin Two: Silver coin of Aegina featuring a sea turtle (470/465 – 445/440 BC)
Ancient coins however, are not merely a medium of transaction; but also tangible symbols that provide important historical information. In the eight thematic units of the exhibition, alongside the exquisite specimens of numismatic art, a selection of other objects (statues, reliefs, vases, figurines, inscriptions) from museums in Greece and abroad will be displayed. The iconography and the references of which scientifically document the images imprinted on the coin flans.
The exhibition will be accompanied by a scholarly catalogue in Greek and English, with authoritative introductory essays with entries on all the exhibits.
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