Phoenicia, Sidon, Baalshillem (Sakton) II, AR 1/16 Shekel, Circa 401-365 BC – RRRR

$650.00

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SKU: G3.18 Categories: ,

Description

Greek, Phoenicia, Sidon, Baalshillem (Sakton) II, AR 1/16 Shekel (silver, 0.62g, 8mm), Circa 401-365 BC
Obv: Phoenician galley to left; Phoenician [B] above, waves below; very unusual probably unrecorded legend for this issue resemble to Hippocamp or Dolphin between galley and waves
Rev: Persian king or hero standing right, fighting lion; O between
Ref: HGC 10, 240 var (Probably Unpublished) Rarity/Choice: Extremely Rare Variation, Good VF (darkly toned and nicely centered)
Note: Phoenicia, an ancient civilization located in the eastern Mediterranean, was renowned for its maritime prowess, trade networks, and vibrant culture. Sidon was one of the major Phoenician cities, along with Tyre and Byblos. Baalshillem II, also known as Sakton, was a ruler of Sidon, during a time when Phoenician city-states were vying for dominance in the region. The 1/16 shekel denomination suggests it was a small unit of currency, likely used for everyday transactions. During Baalshillem II’s reign, the Phoenician city-states were in a state of flux, contending with each other and external powers like the Persian Empire for control of trade routes and territories. The coins minted during this time reflect the economic and political situation of the region. They were often used to pay mercenaries, facilitate trade, and demonstrate the power and wealth of the ruling authority.