Historical Context: This coin was minted by the MACEDONIAN Empire during the reign of Demetrios Polioketes, 294 - 288 BC. Demetrios Poliorketes was the son of Antigonus who on the distribution of Alexander's empire received Asia Minor (Turkey). During his early years Demetrios served as commander of his father's fleet. Demetrios participated in campaigns in Greece, Palestine, Cyprus, Babylonia, Rhodes and the Hellespont and became known as (Besieger of Cities). In 306 BC, Demetrios won a naval battle against Ptolemy I at Salamis. The growing power of Antigonus began to worry the other heirs of Alexander and they made an alliance against Antigonus. At the great battle of Ipsus in 301 BC, Antigonus was defeated and died on the battle field. Demetrios escaped and met his fleet at Ephesus.

With his new wealth, Demetrios returned to Greece to take back the rebellious cities. While he was fighting these battles, Cassander died in 297 BC, leaving Macedonia to his eldest son who also died within the year. Cassander's two younger sons bickered for control and in 294 BC Demetrios took the opportunity to declare himself king of Macedonia. With his new power base, Demetrios started a military buildup to take control of all of Alexander the Great's former territories. However, the population was weary of supporting all of the wars and rebelled. Macedonia and Thessaly joined Pyrrhus and most of the Greek cities just returned to independence. Although he ruled Macedonia only until 288 BC, Demetrios established a long lasting dynasty of kings.

Obv: Macedonian Shield
Rev: Plummed Macedonian Helmet
Diameter: 18 mm diameter (the size of a US penny but twice as thick)
Condition: about Very Fine

Antique Coins
Ancient coins