Numismatic and History Discussion Forums > Greek Coins Discussion Forum

A remarkable and completely unexpected new type of Ptolemaic bronze coin

(1/3) > >>

PtolemAE:
It is seldom that a completely new type of Ptolemaic bronze coin comes to light. Here is one that appears to be the first Ptolemy/Libya type issue of Cyrene with the usual inscription (BASILEOS PTOLEMAIOY) on the Libya side but also, remarkably, a different inscription on the obverse (Ptolemy) side as well. What's more, the part of the obverse inscription that is visible almost certainly says BASILIS(SHS) (OF QUEEN...). That inscription is seen on an enigmatic series of (mostly rare) coins issued at Alexandria currently thought to refer to Kleopatra II. The exact dating of that small group of scarce Alexandria coins has been problematic. You can see that series on the PtolemyBronze.com web site of course and compare the inscriptions. This coin is, for now, the sole example of its type. Its appearance was completely unexpected. As it is certainly an issue of Cyrene there is a good chance it may help to date the Alexandria 'obverse inscription' series. A plausible hypothesis is that the obverse inscription was applied to some coins at Cyrene and at Alexandria for a brief period to honor Kleopatra II, some time in the 160s BC. This is the first coin that indicates special issues honoring the queen, with identical obverse inscriptions, were produced at both Alexandria and Cyrene mints.

Jay GT4:
Very interesting!

Arados:
Fantastic, it´s always a special moment when a new coin type is discovered.

Meepzorp:
Hi PAE,

That's an interesting and unique coin! :)

Meepzorp

PtolemAE:

--- Quote from: Jay GT4 on February 28, 2022, 10:39:50 pm ---Very interesting!

--- End quote ---

Pretty surprising after watching umpteen thousands of Ptolemaic bronze coins float by. I hope there are others as yet unnoticed that this find will bring to light. But so far I'm unaware of any in museum collections or reference books or sale records. This little piece of incontrovertible evidence isn't exactly in fantastic condition - but it conveys a previously unheard message from the past loud and clear.

PtolemAE

Navigation

[0] Message Index

[#] Next page