KINGS OF MACEDON. Alexander III ‘the Great’, 336-323 BC. Tetradrachm (Silver, 27 mm, 16.11 g, 12 h), Odessos, Esti..., magistrate, circa 125-70. Head of Herakles to right, wearing lion skin headdress. Rev. [Β]ΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ - [AΛE]ΞANΔPOY Zeus seated left on low throne, holding long scepter in his left hand and eagle standing right with closed wings in his right; in inner left field, ΕΣΤΙ; below throne, monogram. Price 1205. Struck slightly off center and with minor roughness and light marks, otherwise, very fine.
Description:
This magnificent Tetradrachm coin is a true work of art from the period of the Kings of Macedon, featuring the iconic Alexander III 'the Great'. Measuring 27mm in diameter and weighing 16.11g, this silver coin showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of its time. The obverse side presents a striking portrait of Herakles, the mythical hero, with a distinct lion skin headdress, capturing the strength and valor associated with the legendary figure. On the reverse side, we find the image of Zeus, the king of gods, seated on a throne, holding a long scepter in his left hand, while an eagle with closed wings stands beside him. The exquisite details, such as the carefully depicted facial expressions and the intricate drapery, make this coin a true treasure for any ancient coin collector or history enthusiast. Despite some minor imperfections, this coin remains in very fine condition, retaining its historical and aesthetic appeal.
Alexander III 'the Great', the enigmatic ruler of Macedon from 336 to 323 BC, left an indelible mark on ancient history. Renowned for his military genius, he created one of the largest empires the world had ever seen, stretching from Greece to Egypt and India. Alexander's influence surpassed his military conquests; he also fostered a cultural exchange, known as Hellenistic civilization, which enriched the regions under his rule with Greek language, art, and philosophy. His relentless ambition and thirst for knowledge positioned him as one of history's most significant figures, leaving a profound legacy that still resonates to this day. This coin serves as a fascinating artifact, offering a glimpse into the iconic era of Alexander 'the Great', captivating the imagination and sparking curiosity among collectors and history enthusiasts alike.