Origin: Alexandria
Circa: 180 BC to 145 BC
Collection: Coin Jewelry
Style: Roman
Medium: Silver, Gold
Ptolemy VI Philometor came from a long line of impressive rulers, beginning with Alexander the Great' s successor in Egypt Ptolemy I. The sixth of that illustrious line was only a child when he became king, ruling jointly with his mother until 176 B.C., and later shared power with his sister Cleopatra II, and Ptolemy VIII. His reign was troubled by dynastic difficulties and external rebellion. ln 164 B. C. he went to Rome to plead for his throne, and was soon re-instated in Alexandria. A brave soldier Ptolemy VII died of wounds received in battle against Alexander Balas of Syria. This very beautiful and rare tetradrachm shows the king' s profile with the distinctive Ptolemaic features, possessing a strong chin and penetrating gaze. On the reverse is the trademark eagle, with the Greek inscription, Ptolemy King. The letters ÇÂ è stand for the year of minting and, ÔÔÁ for Paphos as the place where it was minted. This handsome coin seems to have gained in power and presence over the centuries; perfectly suited to someone whose confidence is equal to the great king's of the past. - (FJ.6129)

Antiquities
Ancient Jewelry