Æ16 - Philip III Arrhidaios (323 BC - 315 BC) front Æ16 - Philip III Arrhidaios (323 BC - 315 BC) back
Æ16 - Philip III Arrhidaios (323 BC - 315 BC) photo
© Nomos AG

Æ16 - Philip III Arrhidaios 323 BC - 315 BC

 
Bronze 4 g 16 mm
Description
Issuer
Kingdom of Macedonia
King
Philip III Arrhidaeus (323 BC - 317 BC) Alexander IV (323 BC - 310 BC)
Regent
Antipater (321 BC - 319 BC) Polyperchon (319 BC - 317 BC) Cassander (317 BC - 305 BC)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
323 BC - 315 BC
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Bronze
Weight
4 g
Diameter
16 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#316086
Rarity index
87%

Reverse

Macedonian helmet with crest and cheek pieces, to lower left, kerykeion (caduceus, aka staff of Hermes)

Script: Greek

Lettering: B - A

Unabridged legend: βασιλεύς Ἀλέξανδρος

Translation: King Alexander (III, the Great)

Interesting fact

The coin features a portrait of Philip III Arrhidaios, who was the son of Alexander the Great's half-brother, Philip II. Despite being the son of a powerful king, Philip III Arrhidaios was not well-known for his military conquests or political achievements. Instead, he is remembered for his love of the arts and his support of Greek culture. During his reign, he promoted the works of Greek playwrights and poets, and he even founded a city named P Philippi in honor of his father. This coin is a rare and valuable artifact that provides a glimpse into the life and reign of this lesser-known Macedonian king.