Ancient Ptolemaic Kingdom 300-285 BC Ptolemy I Silver Tetradrachm Very Fine (VF30)

Ancient Ptolemaic Kingdom 300-285 BC Ptolemy I Silver Tetradrachm Very Fine (VF30)

Ptolemy I Soter (c. 367–282 BC) was a Macedonian general under Alexander the Great who became ruler of Egypt after Alexander’s death in 323 BC. During the ensuing Wars of the Diadochi, he secured control of Egypt and founded the Ptolemaic Kingdom, establishing Alexandria as its capital. Ptolemy consolidated his rule by adopting the title king in 305 BC and expanding his influence into Cyrenaica and parts of the eastern Mediterranean. His reign laid the foundations for a wealthy and long-lasting Hellenistic state, blending Greek and Egyptian traditions and creating one of the most powerful successor kingdoms of Alexander’s empire.

Obverse: Diademed head of Ptolemy I Soter facing right, wearing an aegis (a mythological protective garment, specifically a cloak, breastplate, or poncho-like goatskin) around his neck.
Reverse: An eagle standing on a thunderbolt facing left, with closed wings, and monogram in left field.

Specifications:
Issuer: Ptolemaic Kingdom (305 BC - 30 BC)
King: Ptolemy I Soter (305 BC - 282 BC)
Composition: Silver
Weight: Approx. 14 g
Diameter: Approx. 27 mm
Mint: Alexandria, Egypt