Tetradrachm - Alexander I Balas (Sidon) (151 BC - 146 BC) front Tetradrachm - Alexander I Balas (Sidon) (151 BC - 146 BC) back
Tetradrachm - Alexander I Balas (Sidon) (151 BC - 146 BC) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Tetradrachm - Alexander I Balas Sidon 151 BC - 146 BC

 
Silver 14.15 g 26.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Seleucid Empire (Seleucid Empire (305 BC - 64 BC))
King
Alexander I Balas (150 BC - 145 BC)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
151 BC - 146 BC
Value
Tetradrachm (4)
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Silver
Weight
14.15 g
Diameter
26.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#307737
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Eagle at centre facing left, with palm frond over shoulder; date at left; mintmark ΣΙΔΩ at right above aphlaston.

Script: Greek

Lettering:
ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ

ϛΞΡ

ΣΙΔΩ

Translation:
King Alexander

166

Sidon

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Alexander I Balas, who was a Seleucid king who ruled from 151 BC to 146 BC. Despite his short reign, he made significant changes to the empire's currency, including introducing new denominations and metals. The Tetradrachm coin, which this coin is an example of, was one of the most widely used coins during his reign.