Gemini, LLC
Auction 12 11 January 2015
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Seleucid Kingdom. Antiochus III. 223-187 BC. Tetradrachm, 16.88g (12h). Antioch, c. 223-211 BC. Obv: Diademed head of king right. Rx: ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΑΝΤΙΟΧΟΥ Apollo Delphinios seated left on omphalos, holding arrow, other hand resting on bow; monogram in outer left field. SC 1042.1. WSM 1051. EF
In the early years of his reign, Antiochos III consolidated the Seleucid empire. In 221 BC he crushed a revolt in Mesopotamia led by the usurper Molon. In 219- 217, he fought the Fourth Syrian War against Ptolemy IV, often with remarkable success but eventually being defeated in the battle at Raphia. Then he turned to Asia Minor. In 223 a Seleucid general, Achaios, had started reconquering large areas of western Asia Minor from the Attalids, but he eventually set himself up as king in Ionia. In 213 Antiochos captured Achaios' last refuge, Sardes, and had the usurper put to death. Our coin shows the portrait of a young but already experienced ruler who had seen both triumph and defeat
In the early years of his reign, Antiochos III consolidated the Seleucid empire. In 221 BC he crushed a revolt in Mesopotamia led by the usurper Molon. In 219- 217, he fought the Fourth Syrian War against Ptolemy IV, often with remarkable success but eventually being defeated in the battle at Raphia. Then he turned to Asia Minor. In 223 a Seleucid general, Achaios, had started reconquering large areas of western Asia Minor from the Attalids, but he eventually set himself up as king in Ionia. In 213 Antiochos captured Achaios' last refuge, Sardes, and had the usurper put to death. Our coin shows the portrait of a young but already experienced ruler who had seen both triumph and defeat