Artwork Page for Tetradrachm: Head of Antiochos V (obverse); Zeus (reverse)

Details / Information for Tetradrachm: Head of Antiochos V (obverse); Zeus (reverse)

Tetradrachm: Head of Antiochos V (obverse); Zeus (reverse)

164–162 BCE

Greek, Seleukid, minted at Antioch (Syria), reign of Antiochos V

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Medium
silver
Measurements
Diameter: 3.1 cm (1 1/4 in.)
Weight: 16.329 g (0.58 oz.)
Credit Line
Gift of J. H. Wade 1916.975
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Did You Know?

Antiochos V’s boyish portrait reflects his accession to the Seleucid throne at 9 years of age.

Description

Thrust into power while still a child, Antiochos V used coinage to legitimize his tenuous control. On the obverse of this coin, Antiochos appears like many Hellenistic kings, with heavy hair curls and a diadem. On the reverse, a seated Zeus holds the goddess of victory, Nike, who crowns Antiochos’s name with a wreath, confirming his divine right to rule.
A dark gray silver coin is shown from two views. On our left, a profile head faces right with curly hair bound by a headband, encircled by a beaded border. On our right, a bearded figure sits on a throne facing left, holding a winged figure in one hand and a tall scepter in the other. Greek text surrounds the figure. Both sides feature worn, textured metal and a dark patina.

Tetradrachm: Head of Antiochos V (obverse); Zeus (reverse)

164–162 BCE

Greek, Seleukid, minted at Antioch (Syria), reign of Antiochos V

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