Roma Numismatics Ltd
E-Live Auction 3 25 Oct 2018
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Macedon, Koinon of Macedon Æ25. Pseudo-autonomous issue struck during the reign of Severus Alexander. Beroea, circa AD 222-235. AΛEΞANΔPOY, diademed head of Alexander III 'the Great' to right / KOI[NON MAKEΔONΩ]N NEΩ, Alexander, standing right, taming Bucephalas, rearing left. Cf. SNG Copenhagen 1357 (weight). 11.87g, 25mm, 7h.
Good Fine.
According to Plutarch, the beautiful black steed Bukephalos was offered to king Philip II for a fabulous sum of money by a man from Thessaly. Philip was prepared to pay the price demanded but first wished to try the horse. The horse proved to be unmanageable, rearing up against anyone who attempted to mount him, and so Philip rejected the opportunity to purchase it. Alexander, spectator to these events, accused the handlers of weakness repeatedly as the horse was being led away. In response Philip made a wager with Alexander on his ability to ride the horse, whereupon he would pay the full price for it should he fail.
Having noticed that the horse was disturbed by the motion of his own shadow, Alexander took the bridle and turned the horse's head towards the sun. He began to lead the horse forwards and soothing it with some petting, leapt and mounted the horse without issue. Now seated, Alexander kept a gentle hand on the reins and slowly drew in the bridle, eventually bringing Bukephalos under his complete control.
Good Fine.
According to Plutarch, the beautiful black steed Bukephalos was offered to king Philip II for a fabulous sum of money by a man from Thessaly. Philip was prepared to pay the price demanded but first wished to try the horse. The horse proved to be unmanageable, rearing up against anyone who attempted to mount him, and so Philip rejected the opportunity to purchase it. Alexander, spectator to these events, accused the handlers of weakness repeatedly as the horse was being led away. In response Philip made a wager with Alexander on his ability to ride the horse, whereupon he would pay the full price for it should he fail.
Having noticed that the horse was disturbed by the motion of his own shadow, Alexander took the bridle and turned the horse's head towards the sun. He began to lead the horse forwards and soothing it with some petting, leapt and mounted the horse without issue. Now seated, Alexander kept a gentle hand on the reins and slowly drew in the bridle, eventually bringing Bukephalos under his complete control.