Kings of Macedon – Alexander III “the Great” (336–323 BC)
AR Tetradrachm – Aspendos Mint
A beautiful silver tetradrachm struck in the name of Alexander the Great, one of history’s most legendary conquerors and the creator of one of the largest empires of the ancient world.
Minted at Aspendos in Pamphylia, this impressive silver issue reflects the enormous influence of Alexander’s monetary system, whose coinage continued to circulate widely across the Mediterranean and Near East long after his death.
🪙 Coin Details
Kingdom: Macedon
Ruler: Alexander III “the Great”
Date: 336–323 BC
Mint: Aspendos
Denomination: Tetradrachm
Material: Silver (AR)
Weight: 12.54 g
Diameter: 30 mm
Condition: Fine
Obverse
Head of Herakles facing right, wearing the lion skin of the Nemean Lion.
The image symbolizes strength, heroism, and divine ancestry. Alexander strongly associated himself with Herakles, presenting his rule as both heroic and divinely favored.
Reverse
Zeus seated left on throne, holding eagle and sceptre.
The king of the gods appears as the ultimate symbol of authority and legitimacy. The eagle reinforces Zeus’ divine power and became one of the defining images of Hellenistic royal coinage.
🏛 Historical Importance
Alexander III transformed the ancient world through his extraordinary military campaigns, conquering the Persian Empire and spreading Greek culture from Greece to Egypt and India.
His coinage became the first truly international currency of antiquity and remained influential for centuries after his death.
Tetradrachms of Alexander are among the most iconic and historically important coins ever produced, admired for their artistry, symbolism, and connection to one of history’s greatest rulers.
⭐ Why This Coin Matters
Struck in the name of Alexander the Great
Large and impressive silver tetradrachm
Iconic Herakles and Zeus designs
Historic mint of Aspendos
One of the most recognizable coin types of antiquity
A timeless and powerful artifact from the age of Hellenistic conquest.