Tetradrachm In the name of Alexander III

Historical Context: This silver tetradrachm, struck by the city of Perge in Pamphylia between 210-209 BC, exemplifies the enduring numismatic legacy of Alexander III, long after his death. Issued during the Hellenistic period, Perge, a significant port city, maintained the established Alexandrine coinage standard. This practice underscored Alexander's continued prestige as a symbol of power and facilitated regional trade, demonstrating the economic stability and strategic importance of Perge within the complex political landscape of the eastern Mediterranean. The continuous production of "Alexanders" across various mints highlights the widespread acceptance and trust in this coinage type.

Artistry: The obverse features the iconic head of Herakles right, adorned with the Nemean lion's skin, a design deeply associated with Alexander himself, often interpreted as an idealized portrait. The reverse depicts Zeus Aetophoros seated left, holding an eagle and scepter, a powerful symbol of divine authority. While specific engravers are not recorded, the coin reflects the robust Hellenistic stylistic tradition, characterized by strong classical influences and a blend of idealized form with a growing sense of realism, executed with a high degree of sculptural skill typical of the era, showcasing the artistic capabilities of the Pergean mint.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 16.93 grams and measuring 30 mm, this tetradrachm adheres to the established Attic weight standard. Key high-points for wear assessment include the lion's mane and Herakles's facial features on the obverse, and Zeus's head, the eagle, and the top of the scepter on the reverse. A well-struck example would exhibit sharp details across these areas, with a generally round flan and good centering of both obverse and reverse dies, indicative of careful minting practices at Perge during this period, ensuring the coin's integrity and widespread acceptance in commerce.