© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Hemichalkon - Ptolemy II Philadelphus 266 BC - 261 BC
| Bronze | 4.3 g | 18 mm |
| Issuer | Ptolemaic Kingdom (Ptolemaic Kingdom (305 BC - 30 BC)) |
|---|---|
| King | Ptolemy II Philadelphus (285 BC - 246 BC) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 266 BC - 261 BC |
| Value | 1 Hemichalkon = ½ Chalkon = 1⁄16 Obol = 1⁄96 Drachm |
| Currency | Ptolemaic drachm (early reform of Ptolemy II Philadelphus, circa August 272 – 265/260 BC) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 4.3 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Thickness | 3 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#62645 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 83% |
Reverse
Eagle with closed wings standing left on thunderbolt. Two cornucopias above shoulder. Royal diadem sometimes looped around cornucopia. Dotted border around.
Script: Greek
Lettering: ΠTOΛEMAIOΥ BAΣIΛEΩΣ
Translation: King Ptolemy.
Edge
Rough
Comment
Uncertain mint, attributed by Svoronos to Sidon with reservations.Interesting fact
The Hemichalkon coin featuring Ptolemy II Philadelphus is notable for its unique design, which showcases the king's love for Greek culture. The coin's obverse features the king's portrait, while the reverse depicts a scene from Greek mythology, with the goddess Athena standing next to a large vessel, symbolizing the king's desire to promote Greek culture in Egypt. This blending of cultures is a hallmark of the Ptolemaic Kingdom and adds to the rich cultural heritage of the region.
