© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Dichalkon - Demetrios II Nikator Antioch 129 BC - 128 BC
| Bronze | 5.9 g | 17 mm |
| Issuer | Seleucid Empire (Seleucid Empire (305 BC - 64 BC)) |
|---|---|
| King | Demetrios II Nikator (129 BC - 126 BC) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 129 BC - 128 BC |
| Value | Dichalkon (1⁄24) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 5.9 g |
| Diameter | 17 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#302134 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 90% |
Reverse
Nike advancing left, holding wreath and palm; in left field, a bunch of grapes and a letter.
Script: Greek
Lettering:
BAΣIΛEΩΣ ΔHMHTΡIOY ΘEOY NIKATOΡOΣ
Ξ
Translation: (of) the divine King Demetrios the victorious.
Comment
Exact dating of this type is debated but it is commonly accepted to be of the second reign of Demetrios rather than the first.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique blend of Greek and Persian influences in its design. The obverse side of the coin depicts the Greek goddess Athena, while the reverse side features a Persian king, Demetrios II Nikator, in a traditional Persian royal pose. This blending of cultural styles reflects the multicultural nature of the Seleucid Empire, which was founded by a Greek general but ruled over a vast territory that included much of the ancient Near East.
