Seleukid Kingdom
Antiochos VII Euergetes (Sidetes) (138–129 BC)
AR Tetradrachm – Tyre Mint
A historically important silver tetradrachm struck under Antiochus VII Sidetes, one of the last great rulers of the Seleukid Empire.
Minted at Tyre around Seleukid year 177 (136/5 BC), this impressive issue belongs to the Phoenician-standard tetradrachms struck during Antiochos VII’s campaigns to restore Seleukid power after decades of dynastic instability and foreign invasion.
Featuring a refined royal portrait and the iconic eagle-on-prow reverse associated with Tyre, this coin beautifully combines Hellenistic royal imagery with the maritime symbolism of one of the ancient world’s greatest Phoenician cities.
🪙 Coin Details
Kingdom: Seleukid Empire
Ruler: Antiochos VII Euergetes (Sidetes)
Date: CY 177 (136/5 BC)
Mint: Tyre
Denomination: Tetradrachm
Material: Silver (AR)
Standard: Phoenician
Weight: 11.35 g
Diameter: 27 mm
Condition: About Very Fine
Obverse
Diademed and draped bust of Antiochos VII facing right.
The portrait displays the refined realism of late Hellenistic royal coinage, emphasizing dynastic legitimacy, military authority, and royal dignity.
This specimen preserves an especially attractive portrait enhanced by elegant toning.
Reverse
ΑΝΤΙΟΧΟΥ ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ
Eagle standing left upon prow with closed wings, palm branch behind, accompanied by Tyrian monograms and date.
The eagle symbolizes royal power and divine authority, while the ship’s prow reflects the maritime identity and commercial importance of Tyre.
The combination of Seleukid royal iconography with Phoenician civic symbolism creates one of the most visually distinctive silver types of the late Hellenistic world.
🏛 Historical Importance
Antiochos VII was among the final strong rulers of the Seleukid Empire before its gradual collapse.
During his reign he:
restored much of the empire’s lost territory,
defeated internal rivals,
and launched major eastern campaigns against the Parthians.
His efforts briefly revived Seleukid power, making him one of the last kings capable of preserving the legacy established by Seleucus I Nicator after the death of Alexander the Great.
The mint city of Tyre was one of the wealthiest and most important ports of the eastern Mediterranean, famous for trade, maritime commerce, and high-quality silver coinage.
⭐ Why This Coin Matters
Historic Seleukid silver tetradrachm
Attractive portrait of Antiochos VII
Famous Tyre eagle-on-prow reverse
Phoenician standard issue
Strong Hellenistic artistry and symbolism
Important coin from the final great phase of the Seleukid Empire
A fascinating and historically rich silver coin from the twilight of the Hellenistic kingdoms.