Seleukid Kingdom, Alexander I Balas, AR Drachm, Antioch Mint, Circa 152-145 BC

$85.00

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SKU: G14.13 Categories: ,

Description

Greek, Seleukid Kingdom, Alexander I Balas, AR Drachm (silver, 3.79g, 18.8mm), Antioch Mint, Circa 152-145 BC
Obv: Diademed head right
Rev: Apollo seated left on omphalos; to outer left, cornucopia (?) above control mark; (date) in exergue
Ref:  Cf. SMA 139-141; cf. Houghton 173; cf. Jameson 1713 (same obv. die) Rarity/Choice: Common, aVF (irregular flan and lightly stained with some weakness on the reverse, with all that said exhibit a beautiful portrait and overall lovely)
Note: The Seleucid Kings of Syria, a dynasty established by Seleucus I Nicator, ruled over a vast empire that stretched from Anatolia to the borders of India. Alexander I Balas was one of the Seleucid kings who ruled during a tumultuous period marked by internal strife and conflicts over succession. This coin reflects the complex interplay between politics, religion, and culture in the Seleucid Empire, with Alexander I Balas using coinage as a means to assert his authority and to promote his legitimacy as a ruler.