© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Tetradrachm - Ptolemaios XII Alexandria 81 BC - 51 BC
| Silver | 13.2 g | 25 mm |
| Issuer | Ptolemaic Kingdom (Ptolemaic Kingdom (305 BC - 30 BC)) |
|---|---|
| King | Ptolemy XII Neos Dionysos (55 BC - 51 BC) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 81 BC - 51 BC |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Drachm (204 – 30 BC) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 13.2 g |
| Diameter | 25 mm |
| Thickness | 2.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#57113 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 85% |
Reverse
An eagle, wings closed; standing and facing left, holding a bolt of lightning in its talons.
Above the eagle's shoulders, a laurel branch.
To the left of the eagle's right leg, Isis' solar headdress (not visible here due to wear).
To the left of the eagle, inscriptions giving the sovereign's year of reign at the time of issue (Lι): Tenth year
To the right, inscriptions, marks of the Paphos workshop (ΠΑ) and meaning: P (phos).
A circular legend, along the scroll.
Script: Greek
Lettering:
ΠTOΛEMAIOΥ BAΣΙΛEΩΣ
Lι
ΠA
Edge
Rough
Comment
All coins from 80 BC - 59 BC were issued under the first reign of Ptolemy XII, and all coins from 54 BC - 51 BC were issued under the second reign.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Ptolemy XII, also known as Ptolemy Auletes, who was the ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom at the time the coin was minted. He is depicted on the obverse side of the coin wearing a diadem and a beard, while the reverse side features an image of Zeus enthroned, holding a scepter and an eagle. This coin is significant because it highlights the blending of Greek and Egyptian cultures that occurred during the Ptolemaic period, as the coin's design combines elements of both cultures. Additionally, the fact that it was made of silver and weighs 13.2 grams suggests that it was a valuable and widely used coin during its time.
