Seleucid Empire, Mesopotamia. Antiochus IV, Epiphanes, 175-164 BC Seleucia on the Tigris, c. 175-164 BC
Seleucid Empire, Mesopotamia. Antiochus IV, Epiphanes, 175-164 BC Seleucia on the Tigris, c. 175-164 BC
AR Tetradrachm, 17.07g (28mm, 12h).
Diademed head of Antiochus IV r., large and fine style, with break in hair at temple, diadem ends fluttering behind / BAΣIΛEΩΣ – ANTIOXOY Apollo seated l. on omphalos, testing arrow in r. hand and resting l. arm on grounded bow; in exergue, monogram
Pedigree: Privately purchased from Zurqieh Ancient Numismatics on Vcoins in July 2023
References: SC 1505.1
Grade: Classical style portrait with sharp strike and high relief. Nicely toned. Good VF
gk1986
Antiochus IV was known as Epiphanes which means “God Manifest”. These coins were special issues that reflected the “Egyptianizing” influences that were dominant on the coins of the Seleucids. These issues were struck during the occupation of Egypt. Lorber and Hougton suggest that these coins were struck for the purpose of a base medal option for domestic use, as Antiochus IV wanted to conserve his silver.