Seleukid Kingdom, Antiochos VI Dionysos, AR Hemidrachm, Antioch Mint, Struck Circa 143-142 BC – RRR

$130.00

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Description

Greek, Seleukid Kingdom, 144-142 BC, Antiochos VI Dionysos, AR Hemidrachm, Antioch Mint, Struck Circa 143-142 BC
Obv: Radiate and diademed head of Antiochos VI Dionysos to right
Rev: [BA]ΣIΛEΩΣ / [A]NTIOXOY – [EΠI]ΦANOYΣ / [ΔI]ONYΣOY Panther standing left, foreleg raised, holding broken spear in the mouth; above, ΣTA
Ref: SC 2004 Rarity/Choice: Rare, Good VF (edge chipped, as is common with coins of this type, with 2 tiny pieces glued onto the flan and one piece missing. Otherwise, nicely toned with clear legend)
Note:  The Seleucid Kingdom was one of the successor states of Alexander the Great’s empire, ruling over a vast territory in the Near East. Antiochos VI’s reign was marked by internal conflicts, as well as challenges from rival claimants to the throne. This coin was minted during a period of instability, as Antiochos VI struggled to maintain control over his kingdom amidst internal revolts and external threats. The radiate crown symbolizes divine authority, while the diadem denotes kingship. This combination highlights Antiochos’s royal lineage and his association with the divine.  The panther, a symbol of power and ferocity, is associated with the god Dionysos. The broken spear in its mouth symbolizes victory and the defeat of enemies. Above the panther is the monogram ΣTA, representing the mint control mark. Overall, this hemidrachm provides a comprehensive representation of Antiochos VI Dionysos’s rule, highlighting his divine authority, military achievements, and the symbolism used to reinforce his legitimacy as king.