Ancient Greek Silver Premium Condition Drachm: Alexander the Great (circa 336–323 BCE)

This genuine ancient Greek silver drachm coin is one of the great classics of antiquity issued during or shortly after the reign of Alexander the Great from 336–323 BCE. It is in premium condition showing only light wear from use in commerce about 2,300 years ago. The design features an image of Herakles (or Hercules as the Romans called him) wearing a headdress made of a lion skin. Although there are many different reverse designs, the most often seen features Zeus seated, holding an eagle and leaning on a scepter. A certificate of authenticity will accompany the coin.

Alexander was the son of Philip II, king of Macedon, who provided Alexander with the foundation to build a vast empire on an unprecedented scale. Alexander was only 20 years old when he became king. However, he had received military training all his life at the side of his father, and had been tutored in Greek classical learning by Aristotle, one of the greatest philosophers of the time.

Alexander's greatest legacy to numismatics was his practice of paying his soldiers in cash, which enabled the spread of Macedonian coinage and culture throughout the Western world. The silver drachm was the standard circulating unit of currency in Alexander's empire and represented about a day's salary for the average soldier or worker.

Alexander met an unexpected and mysterious death in 323 BCE; he was just 32 years old. Whether his death was from fever or poisoning, Alexander left a legacy which transformed the world. In addition to uniting most of the Western world and spreading Greek culture and knowledge, Alexander established the first uniform monetary system which made relatively easy trade between distant places possible.

Includes:
• Premium Condition Alexander the Great Silver Drachm, 336–323 BCE

Warranty Information:
This product comes with a 30-day warranty through TSC.