Tetradrachm of Lysimachos of Thrace (Obverse: Alexander as Zeus-Ammon; Reverse: Athena)

Artist Unidentified artist

CultureThracian

Datec. 306-281 BCE

Mediumsilver

Dimensions1 1/4 x 1 1/4 x 1 1/4 in., 0.00243 lb. (3.2 x 3.2 x 3.2 cm, 0.0011 kg)

Classificationscoins & medals

Credit LineAckland Fund

Object number66.27.12

DescriptionObverse:
Alexander’s head in relief to right, a curved horn at the temple. A diadem restrains loose curls that reach the base of his neck, the ends floating at left and under the neck. A protruding brow projects over a deeply set eye. Cheekbones and chin are prominent. Hair over the forehead recalls the characteristic anastole arrangement. Struck off-center, as the dotted border is missing above the head.

Reverse:
Athena sits to left on a throne with solid base and lion leg. She wears a peplos, a narrow, crossed aegis, and a mantle about her legs. Her Corinthian helmet has a tall crest, her long hair emerging beneath it. Her face appears pinched, possibly fierce. A spear rests at a diagonal behind her. Her left arm leans on a shield with lion-head boss, and her right arm extends forward, supporting a winged Nike on her hand. The Nike holds a wreath above the word “ΛΥΣΙΜΑΧΟΥ” (of Lysimachos). To right of Athena appears the word “ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ” (king). A monogram “HP” occurs beneath Athena’s right arm, a crescent moon in the exergue below a ground line.

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