Dec 9, 2009
Dec 9, 2009

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

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

164–162 BC

Part of a set. See all set records

Silver

Diameter: 3.1 cm (1 1/4 in.)

Weight: 16.329 g (0.58 oz.)

Die axis: 1

Gift of J. H. Wade 1916.975

Location

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.

See also
Collection: 
GR - Greek
Department: 
Greek and Roman Art
Type of artwork: 
Coins
Medium: 
Silver
Credit line: 
Gift of J. H. Wade

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