Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt
Ptolemy III Euergetes (246–222 BC)
Massive Æ Drachm – Alexandria Mint
An extraordinary and monumental bronze drachm struck under Ptolemy III Euergetes, one of the most powerful and successful rulers of the Hellenistic world.
Minted at Alexandria between circa 245 and 222 BC, this impressive large-module issue belongs to the celebrated heavy bronze coinage of the Ptolemaic Kingdom — among the largest and most visually striking coins of antiquity.
Weighing nearly 68 grams and struck on an exceptional 44 mm flan, this remarkable piece combines immense physical presence with outstanding Hellenistic artistry.
🪙 Coin Details
Kingdom: Ptolemaic Egypt
Ruler: Ptolemy III Euergetes
Date: circa 245–222 BC
Mint: Alexandria
Denomination: Æ Drachm
Material: Bronze (Æ)
Weight: 67.86 g
Diameter: 44 mm
Condition: Extremely Fine
Obverse
Head of Zeus-Ammon facing right, wearing tainia.
The portrait of Zeus-Ammon represents the fusion of Greek and Egyptian religious traditions that characterized Ptolemaic Egypt. Combining the Greek Zeus with the Egyptian god Amun, the image symbolized divine kingship and the legitimacy of the Ptolemaic dynasty.
This specimen preserves a particularly powerful and artistic portrait with remarkable detail and sculptural depth.
Reverse
ΠΤΟΛΕΜΑΙΟΥ ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ
Eagle standing left upon thunderbolt, with closed wings; filleted cornucopia to left and monogram between the legs.
The eagle on thunderbolt became the enduring dynastic emblem of the Ptolemies, symbolizing royal authority, military strength, and divine protection.
The cornucopia represents prosperity and abundance under the rule of the king.
🏛 Historical Importance
Ptolemy III Euergetes presided over the height of Ptolemaic power and wealth.
During his reign:
Egypt expanded its influence throughout the eastern Mediterranean,
Alexandria flourished as one of the greatest intellectual centers of the ancient world,
and the famous Library of Alexandria reached new prominence.
His military campaigns and economic reforms transformed the kingdom into one of the dominant powers of the Hellenistic age.
The massive bronze coinage issued under his authority reflects both the immense wealth of Egypt and the sophisticated monetary system of the Ptolemies.
⭐ Why This Coin Matters
Exceptional 44 mm massive bronze module
Nearly 68 grams of ancient bronze
Magnificent Zeus-Ammon portrait
Full legends and strong strike
Attractive brown-red patina
Historic Alexandria mint issue
One of the most impressive bronze types of the Hellenistic world
A museum-worthy Ptolemaic bronze of exceptional size, artistry, and historical importance.