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Ancient Greek – Ptolemaic Kingdom – Arsinoe III – Small Bronze, Cyprus

Ancient Greek – Ptolemaic Kingdom – Arsinoe III – Small Bronze, Cyprus

$82.00
SKU:
HF32934
Maximum Purchase:
1 unit
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Ancient Greek – Ptolemaic Kingdom – Arsinoe III – Small Bronze, Cyprus

PTOLEMAIC KINGDOM OF EGYPT – ARSINOE III, wife of PTOLEMY IV PHILOPATOR  AE Bronze. Approximately 1.59 g, 12.92 × 13.17 mm.

A fascinating small bronze coin associated with the Ptolemaic Kingdom, the Hellenistic dynasty that ruled Egypt following the death of Alexander the Great.

This small bronze denomination is associated with the Ptolemaic coinage of the period and is notable for its diminutive size. A closely related cataloged type is approximately 1.64 g and 11 mm, with a female portrait and cornucopia reverse.

An Interesting Attribution

The identification of the female portrait on these small Ptolemaic bronzes has been debated by modern numismatists. They were traditionally attributed to Arsinoe III, but some specialists have proposed that the portrait may instead represent Aphrodite, or that the coins belong to a later period. Therefore, the attribution is best presented as “traditionally attributed to Arsinoe III” unless the exact variety is confirmed.

Historical Background

The Ptolemaic dynasty was founded by Ptolemy I Soter, one of Alexander the Great's generals. The dynasty ruled Egypt for nearly three centuries and combined Greek and Egyptian traditions.

Arsinoe III was one of the most prominent queens of the dynasty. Ancient sources indicate that she took an active role during the conflict with the Seleucid Empire and was present with the Ptolemaic army at Raphia.

This tiny bronze coin provides a tangible connection to the fascinating Hellenistic world of ancient Egypt, more than 2,000 years ago.

Coin Details

  • Kingdom: Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt
  • Queen: Arsinoe III
  • Relationship: Wife and sister of Ptolemy IV Philopator
  • Denomination: Small AE Bronze / Chalkon type
  • Metal: Bronze
  • Weight: 1.59 grams
  • Diameter: 12.92 × 13.17 mm
  • Period: Hellenistic
  • Attribution: Traditionally associated with Arsinoe III

A very interesting little piece of Ptolemaic history, representing the royal world of Hellenistic Egypt and one of its most important queens.

Please examine the photographs for the exact portrait, reverse design, condition, patina and visible details of this individual coin.

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