Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, Ptolemy VI Philometor, AE Obol, Cyprus Mint, Zeus / Eagle

$280.00

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SKU: G6.15 Categories: ,

Description

Greek, Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, Ptolemy VI Philometor, 180-180 BC, AE Obol (bronze, 25.52g, 30.1mm), Cyprus Mint
Obv: Diademed head of Zeus-Ammon to right
Rev: BAΣIΛEΩΣ [ΠTOΛEMAIOY]; eagle with closed wings standing to left on thunderbolt;  transverse scepter over shoulder, lotus flower in left field, EYΛ between legs
Ref: SNG Copenhagen 293; Lorber, Lotus Series VI.2 Rarity/Choice: Common, aEF (a slight area of weakness and porosity on the reverse are present, otherwise, it features an expressive portrait, well-centered and struck on a broad flan)
Note: Zeus-Ammon, a syncretic deity combining aspects of Zeus and the Egyptian god Amun, was highly venerated in the Ptolemaic Kingdom. The diadem, a symbol of royal authority, emphasizes Ptolemy VI’s divine kingship and connection to the ruling deity. An eagle, a symbol associated with Zeus, is portrayed with closed wings, standing to the left on a thunderbolt. The thunderbolt represents Zeus’s power and authority, reinforcing the divine connection. The presence of the eagle on the coin underscores the Ptolemaic ruler’s association with Zeus and the divine right to rule. Additionally, the eagle holds a transverse scepter over its shoulder, symbolizing sovereignty and kingship, signifying Ptolemy VI’s authority over Egypt and its territories. Furthermore, a lotus flower is depicted in the left field, representing rebirth, purity, and creation in ancient Egyptian religion. Its inclusion suggests the Ptolemaic king’s acknowledgment and adoption of Egyptian religious traditions, reinforcing his legitimacy among the Egyptian populace. Overall, this coin serves as a powerful representation of Ptolemy VI’s rule, depicting him as a divinely ordained king with authority over both Egyptian and Hellenistic religious traditions, highlighting the syncretism and cultural blending characteristic of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt.