Tetradrachm - Alexander I Balas (Tyre) 164 (149 BC) front Tetradrachm - Alexander I Balas (Tyre) 164 (149 BC) back
Tetradrachm - Alexander I Balas (Tyre) 164 (149 BC) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Tetradrachm - Alexander I Balas Tyre 164 149 BC

164 (149 BC) year
Silver 14.21 g 29 mm
Description
Issuer
Seleucid Empire (Seleucid Empire (305 BC - 64 BC))
King
Alexander I Balas (150 BC - 145 BC)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
164 (149 BC)
Calendar
Seleucid era
Value
Tetradrachm (4)
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Silver
Weight
14.21 g
Diameter
29 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#425824
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Eagle standing left on prow left; palm frond behind; to left, club surmounted by Tyre monogram; to right, ΔΞP (date) above monogram.

Script: Greek

Lettering:
ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ
ΔΞP

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Alexander I Balas, who was a ruler of the Seleucid Empire, but was not actually a member of the Seleucid royal family. He came to power through a series of political appointments and marriages, and his reign was marked by controversy and conflict. Despite this, his coinage, such as this tetradrachm, continued to be used and valued throughout the empire.