Dichalkon - Alexander I Balas (150 BC - 145 BC) front Dichalkon - Alexander I Balas (150 BC - 145 BC) back
Dichalkon - Alexander I Balas (150 BC - 145 BC) photo
© Solidus Numismatik e.K.

Dichalkon - Alexander I Balas 150 BC - 145 BC

 
Bronze 7 g 18 mm
Description
Issuer
Seleucid Empire (Seleucid Empire (305 BC - 64 BC))
King
Alexander I Balas (150 BC - 145 BC)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
150 BC - 145 BC
Value
Dichalkon (1⁄24)
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Bronze
Weight
7 g
Diameter
18 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#139694
Rarity index
85%

Reverse

Apollo standing left, holding arrow and grounded bow; palm branch to outer left, monogram in outer right field or exergue.

Script: Greek

Lettering: ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ

Translation: King Alexander (I, Balas)

Comment

N#427364

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Dichalkon coin of Alexander I Balas is that it features a unique blend of Greek and Persian design elements. The obverse side of the coin depicts a portrait of Alexander I Balas wearing a royal diadem, while the reverse side shows a seated Apollo holding a lyre, surrounded by Greek inscriptions. This fusion of Greek and Persian styles reflects the cultural diversity of the Seleucid Empire, which was a major power in the ancient Near East during the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC.