Roma Numismatics Ltd
Auction XIII 23 March 2017
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Kingdom of Macedon, Alexander III 'the Great' AV Stater. Susa, circa 325-320 BC. Head of Athena right, wearing pendant earring, necklace and crested Corinthian helmet decorated with eagle / Nike standing to left, holding wreath in right hand and cradling stylis with left, monograms below left and right wings; ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡOΥ to right. Price 3826A; SNG Berry 184. 8.59g, 19mm, 4h.
Mint State. Exceedingly Rare.
The gold staters in the name of Alexander struck at Susa are today comparatively rare, but even among this scarce series this issue stands out prominently both in rarity and on account of the symbol found on the helmet of Athena. Rather than the commonly seen griffin, coiled serpent or sphinx, instead here we are presented with an eagle (or dove) in flight. The reason for this departure from normal form may hold some significance, or be nothing more than the whim of the engraver - we shall never know.
The highly artistic engraving of Nike deserves special mention also, as it is rich with intricate and delicate features - Nike's face is exceptionally well detailed, her wings likewise, and she clasps the laurel wreath delicately between thumb and index finger as she gazes reverentially at it.
Mint State. Exceedingly Rare.
The gold staters in the name of Alexander struck at Susa are today comparatively rare, but even among this scarce series this issue stands out prominently both in rarity and on account of the symbol found on the helmet of Athena. Rather than the commonly seen griffin, coiled serpent or sphinx, instead here we are presented with an eagle (or dove) in flight. The reason for this departure from normal form may hold some significance, or be nothing more than the whim of the engraver - we shall never know.
The highly artistic engraving of Nike deserves special mention also, as it is rich with intricate and delicate features - Nike's face is exceptionally well detailed, her wings likewise, and she clasps the laurel wreath delicately between thumb and index finger as she gazes reverentially at it.