Description
The Diadochi of Alexander’s Empire, Lysimachus, as King of Macedonian-controlled Thrace, Asia Minor and Macedon, Silver Tetradrachm (17.01g, 28mm, Attic Standard), uncertain mint. Obverse: Diademed head of the Deified King Alexander III of Macedon facing to the right, wearing the Horn of Ammon. Reverse: Athena Nikephoros seated facing to the left, draped and wearing crested Corinthian helmet, Nike is raised aloft in right hand and her left rests on the Gorgoneion aegis, which rests to the right, spear rests behind, monogram to inner left field, “ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ” downward to the right, “ΛΥΣΙMΑXOY” downward to the left. Thompson –; Müller 628. Typically bold piece struck in high relief, the portrait of Alexander quite charming, a few contact marks and hairline scratch to reverse, details good Very Fine.
The Reverse Greek legend reads “βασιλεύς Λῡσῐ́μᾰχος” (English transliteration as “Basileús Lūsímakhos”), with an English translation of “King Lysimachus”. The central reverse figure is an interpretation of Athena, the Ancient Greek God of wisdom and war, holding Nike, the God of Victory – the portrayal of the two deities together is referred to as ‘Athena Nikephoros’ or Athena the Victor. During the turbulent socio-political period following the Wars of the Diadochi, the concepts of wisdom and victory were vital in solidifying one’s legitimacy as a Hellenistic King and inheritor of Alexander III’s vast empire.
Previously sold through CNG for the equivalent of AU$2250 at the time.