Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt
Kleopatra VII Thea Neotera (51–30 BC)
Æ Diobol / 80 Drachmai – Alexandria Mint
An exceptional bronze issue of the legendary Cleopatra VII, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom and one of the most iconic women of the ancient world.
Struck at Alexandria between 51 and 30 BC, this impressive large bronze diobol belongs to the final chapter of Hellenistic Egypt before its transformation into a Roman province under Augustus.
Featuring one of the most sought-after portraits of Cleopatra on ancient coinage, this remarkable issue captures the power, prestige, and political sophistication of the last Ptolemaic queen.
🪙 Coin Details
Kingdom: Ptolemaic Egypt
Ruler: Kleopatra VII Thea Neotera
Date: 51–30 BC
Mint: Alexandria
Denomination: Diobol / 80 Drachmai
Material: Bronze (Æ)
Weight: 15.96 g
Diameter: 25 mm
Condition: Very Fine / About Very Fine
Obverse
Diademed and draped bust of Cleopatra VII facing right.
Unlike the highly idealized portraits seen on earlier Hellenistic coinage, Cleopatra’s depiction is strikingly realistic and deeply personal. Her strong profile, royal diadem, and commanding presence emphasize legitimacy, intelligence, and dynastic authority.
This portrait style reflects the final evolution of Ptolemaic royal iconography and remains one of the most historically important female portraits in ancient numismatics.
Reverse
KΛΕΟΠΑΤΡΑC BACIΛΙCCHC
Eagle standing left upon thunderbolt, with denomination mark Π to the right.
The eagle on thunderbolt was the enduring dynastic emblem of the Ptolemies, symbolizing divine kingship, royal power, and continuity with the legacy of Ptolemy I Soter.
The denomination mark identifies the coin as part of the large bronze monetary system used throughout Egypt during Cleopatra’s reign.
🏛 Historical Importance
Cleopatra VII remains one of antiquity’s most fascinating and influential rulers.
Highly educated, multilingual, and politically gifted, she fought tirelessly to preserve the independence of Egypt during the rise of Roman power. Her alliances and relationships with:
Julius Caesar,
and Mark Antony
placed her at the center of the political struggles that reshaped the Mediterranean world.
Following her defeat by Octavian in 30 BC, Egypt became a Roman province, marking the end of both the Ptolemaic dynasty and the Hellenistic Age itself.
Coins of Cleopatra VII are therefore not merely monetary artifacts — they are direct witnesses to one of the most dramatic turning points in ancient history.
⭐ Why This Coin Matters
Authentic coin of Cleopatra VII
One of the most desirable ancient female portraits
Large and impressive Ptolemaic bronze issue
Historic Alexandria mint
Beautiful dark-green patina with traces of desert surfaces
Strong historical connection to Rome, Egypt, and the end of the Hellenistic world
A remarkable and highly collectible artifact from the reign of history’s most famous queen.