This large silver tetradrachm (worth four drachms) was minted between 335-315 BC in Paeonia (ancient kingdom in what is now northern Macedonia and southern Serbia).
Front Side: Features the laureate (bay-wreathed) head of Apollo with profile eye facing right
Back Side: Shows a horseman in a crested helmet charging right, spearing a fallen enemy carrying a Macedonian shield, with the inscription "PATPAOY" (of Patraos)
Technical Details:
Weight: 12.87 grams
References: Cf. BM-4 Provenance: Ex. Paeonian Hoard
Historical Significance: This coin was issued during the reign of King Patraos, who ruled Paeonia during the tumultuous period following Alexander the Great's death. The militaristic imagery reflects the constant warfare in the region as various successor kingdoms fought for dominance. The fallen enemy with a Macedonian shield likely represents conflict with neighboring Macedonia. Apollo's portrait demonstrates cultural ties with the wider Greek world, while the dynamic cavalry scene celebrates the Paeonians' reputation as excellent horsemen. These coins were minted during a brief period of Paeonian independence before the kingdom was absorbed into the Macedonian empire.
This large silver tetradrachm (worth four drachms) was minted between 335-315 BC in Paeonia (ancient kingdom in what is now northern Macedonia and southern Serbia).
Front Side: Features the laureate (bay-wreathed) head of Apollo with profile eye facing right
Back Side: Shows a horseman in a crested helmet charging right, spearing a fallen enemy carrying a Macedonian shield, with the inscription "PATPAOY" (of Patraos)
Technical Details:
Weight: 12.87 grams
References: Cf. BM-4 Provenance: Ex. Paeonian Hoard
Historical Significance: This coin was issued during the reign of King Patraos, who ruled Paeonia during the tumultuous period following Alexander the Great's death. The militaristic imagery reflects the constant warfare in the region as various successor kingdoms fought for dominance. The fallen enemy with a Macedonian shield likely represents conflict with neighboring Macedonia. Apollo's portrait demonstrates cultural ties with the wider Greek world, while the dynamic cavalry scene celebrates the Paeonians' reputation as excellent horsemen. These coins were minted during a brief period of Paeonian independence before the kingdom was absorbed into the Macedonian empire.
