Struck under the authority of Seleucus I, this AR tetradrachm in the name of Alexander III embodies the moment when Alexander’s empire transformed into successor kingdoms—yet his imagery remained the unquestioned standard of power.
The obverse presents Heracles in the lion skin, a heroic portrait long associated with Alexander himself—strength, legitimacy, and divine favor made tangible in silver. On the reverse, Zeus enthroned rules with calm authority, a visual manifesto of universal kingship that Seleucus preserved to legitimize his own rule across Asia.
With a full 5/5 strike, this example delivers bold relief and crisp definition, allowing the classical artistry to command attention even at arm’s length. The VF grade reflects honest ancient circulation, while the noted marks and light brushing speak to a coin that lived, moved, and served as real currency in a world-spanning empire.
Ruler Named: Alexander III “the Great”
Issuing Authority: Seleucus I
Date: In the name of Alexander, 336–323 BC
Denomination: AR Tetradrachm
Type: Heracles / Zeus enthroned
Grade: VF
Notes: Brushed; marks present
These Seleucid issues are not mere imitations—they are continuations of empire, struck to ensure trust and continuity after Alexander’s death. Each piece is a bridge between conquest and governance, carrying the iconography that unified the ancient world.
A strong acquisition for collectors of Alexander-type tetradrachms, Seleucid history, or high-strike classical silver that prioritizes presence, history, and authority over pristine surfaces.
Struck under the authority of Seleucus I, this AR tetradrachm in the name of Alexander III embodies the moment when Alexander’s empire transformed into successor kingdoms—yet his imagery remained the unquestioned standard of power.
The obverse presents Heracles in the lion skin, a heroic portrait long associated with Alexander himself—strength, legitimacy, and divine favor made tangible in silver. On the reverse, Zeus enthroned rules with calm authority, a visual manifesto of universal kingship that Seleucus preserved to legitimize his own rule across Asia.
With a full 5/5 strike, this example delivers bold relief and crisp definition, allowing the classical artistry to command attention even at arm’s length. The VF grade reflects honest ancient circulation, while the noted marks and light brushing speak to a coin that lived, moved, and served as real currency in a world-spanning empire.
Ruler Named: Alexander III “the Great”
Issuing Authority: Seleucus I
Date: In the name of Alexander, 336–323 BC
Denomination: AR Tetradrachm
Type: Heracles / Zeus enthroned
Grade: VF
Notes: Brushed; marks present
These Seleucid issues are not mere imitations—they are continuations of empire, struck to ensure trust and continuity after Alexander’s death. Each piece is a bridge between conquest and governance, carrying the iconography that unified the ancient world.
A strong acquisition for collectors of Alexander-type tetradrachms, Seleucid history, or high-strike classical silver that prioritizes presence, history, and authority over pristine surfaces.
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