Alexander III | Silver Drachm | CH-AU

Kingdom of Macedon | Alexander III "The Great" | 336-323 BC | Silver Drachm | Early Posthumous Issue | NGC Ancients Certified Choice About Uncirculated | Available at Austin Rare Coins & Bullion

This magnificent Silver Drachm, struck in the Kingdom of Macedon in the years following Alexander the Great’s death, is a beautiful example of early posthumous coinage. It reflects the legacy left behind by Alexander, whose empire stretched from Greece to the far reaches of Asia. As a Choice About Uncirculated coin, certified by NGC Ancients, this piece presents incredible preservation for its age, embodying both historical and aesthetic significance.

Obverse Design: On the obverse, we see the heroic image of Heracles, the legendary Greek hero, wearing the lion skin of the Nemean Lion. Heracles was one of Alexander’s personal symbols, representing the qualities of strength and leadership that Alexander himself sought to emulate. The finely struck details of the lion skin headdress and Heracles' features show the masterful craftsmanship of ancient engravers, with remarkable clarity that has endured for over two millennia.

Reverse Design: The coin's reverse features the seated figure of Zeus, the king of the gods, holding an eagle on his outstretched arm and gripping a scepter. Zeus represents divine power and authority, which Alexander invoked during his lifetime to legitimize his conquests and rule. The inscription of "ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ" (of Alexander) further immortalizes his name on this posthumous issue. The elegance of Zeus's figure and the sharpness of the surrounding details make this coin a striking example of ancient artistry.

Historical Context: This Early Posthumous Silver Drachm was struck after Alexander’s death, during the period when his empire was divided among his generals, the Diadochi. These coins played a crucial role in maintaining the continuity of his legacy across the vast regions he conquered. The Silver Drachms continued to circulate, symbolizing the continued reach of Macedon’s influence, even after the fall of its most famous ruler.

Certification and Condition: Graded by NGC Ancients as Choice About Uncirculated, this coin is an exceptional example of its type. The Choice AU grade reflects minimal signs of wear, allowing the intricate designs of both Heracles and Zeus to remain prominently visible. The surfaces exhibit a remarkable level of preservation, with only slight handling marks typical of ancient coins that have survived for thousands of years. This exceptional condition makes it a true prize for collectors of ancient coinage.

Rarity and Collectability: Early posthumous coins of Alexander III are highly collectible, with demand driven by both their historical significance and their artistry. The Choice About Uncirculated grade enhances the rarity of this piece, as few examples of such high quality remain in existence. The sharpness of its details and the ancient symbolism captured on both sides make this coin particularly desirable for collectors of ancient Greek and Macedonian coins.

Available at Austin Rare Coins & Bullion: This superb Silver Drachm from the Kingdom of Macedon, struck in the name of Alexander the Great, is now available through Austin Rare Coins & Bullion. Its Choice About Uncirculated condition, certified by NGC Ancients, guarantees its quality and authenticity, making it an excellent addition to any ancient numismatic collection. Don’t miss this opportunity to own a piece of history linked to one of the most celebrated figures of the ancient world.