Catalog
| Issuer | Kingdom of Macedonia |
|---|---|
| Year | 175 BC - 125 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 16.50 g |
| Diameter | 31.0 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Price#1054 |
| Obverse description | Head of Herakles wearing lion skin headdress to right |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Zeus seated left on throne, holding eagle in his right hand and long scepter in his left. To left, helmet above ΔA and below throne, HPA |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering |
BAΣIΛEΩΣ AΛEΞANΔΡOΥ ΔA HPA (Translation: King Alexander (III, the Great)) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (175 BC - 125 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 3438991600 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver tetradrachm, issued in the name of Alexander III by Mesembria (175-125 BC), underscores the enduring influence of Alexander the Great's coinage. Struck long after his death, these issues demonstrate the universal acceptance of his types as a stable international currency throughout the Hellenistic world. Mesembria, a prominent Greek city on the Thracian coast, adopted these types to facilitate trade and affirm its economic importance, a common practice among successor states.
Artistry: The coin adheres to the iconic Alexander coinage types. The obverse features Herakles, right, wearing the Nemean lion-skin headdress, symbolizing Alexander's heroic lineage. The reverse depicts Zeus Aetophoros (eagle-bearer) enthroned left, holding an eagle and scepter. Engravers remain anonymous, but the artistic style aligns with Hellenistic traditions, blending idealized forms with naturalistic touches. Control marks, typically monograms or symbols, identify Mesembria as the issuing authority.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this tetradrachm measures 31.0 millimeters and weighs 16.50 grams, conforming to the Attic weight standard. Critical high-points for wear assessment include the lion's mane and Herakles's facial features on the obverse. On the reverse, examine Zeus's torso, the eagle's details, and the throne's intricate design. Optimal strike quality requires strong centering and sharp definition on both sides, particularly for the legend and control marks, indicating a well-preserved die and precise striking.