© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Obol - Ptolemy II Philadelphos Tyre 266 BC - 261 BC
| Bronze | 12 g | 22 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 | Obol (⅙) |
| Currency | Attic drachm (circa 323 – 306 BC) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 12 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#391714 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Eagle with spread wings standing left on thunderbolt. Cornucopia and club in left field.
Script: Greek
Lettering: BAΣIΛEΩΣ ΠTOΛEMAIOY
Translation: King Ptolemy.
Interesting fact
The Ptolemy II Philadelphos Obol coin was used as a form of currency in the Ptolemaic Kingdom, which was a Hellenistic kingdom that existed in Egypt after the death of Alexander the Great. The coin features an image of Ptolemy II Philadelphos on one side and an eagle on the other. The eagle was a symbol of Zeus, who was considered the chief god of the Ptolemaic Kingdom. The coin was made of bronze and weighed 12 grams, which was a significant amount for a coin at that time. Despite its age, many of these coins have survived to this day and are highly sought after by collectors.
