Seleukid Kingdom. Antioch on the Orontes. Philip I Philadelphos 95-75 BC.
Tetradrachm AR

26 mm, 16,08 g

Diademed head right / ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΦΙΛΙΠΠΟΥ ΕΠΙΦΑΝΟΥΣ ΦΙΛΑΔΕΛΦΟΥ, Zeus Nikephoros seated left, monogram below throne, P in exergue, all within wreath.

Good Very Fine

SC 2463.3i; HGC 9, 1319.

Philip I Epiphanes Philadelphos, a Hellenistic Seleucid monarch, ruled Syria from 94 to 75 BC. Born between 124 and 109 BC, he faced early life challenges during the civil war between his father, Antiochus VIII, and uncle, Antiochus IX. Philip I ascended the throne with his twin brother Antiochus XI after the murder of Seleucus VI in 94 BC. Their reign aimed to avenge Seleucus VI, involving battles against Antiochus X. In 93 BC, Antiochus XI seized Antioch, but his death led to Philip I's alliance with Demetrius III. Antiochus X returned, killing Antiochus XI in 88 BC. Philip I then triumphed over Demetrius III, taking control of Antioch. Monetary reforms initiated by Philip I persisted until the Roman conquest in 64 BC. While traditionally considered to have died in 83 BC, the exact date remains uncertain. Philip I faced challenges from rival claimants, including Tigranes II of Armenia. His reign included strategic coinage modifications and control of the capital, but the circumstances of his death are unclear. Various theories propose his escape to Cilicia or a peaceful long reign, challenging the traditional narrative. The date of his death is debated, with some suggesting 75 BC. Philip I's rule epitomizes the tumultuous Seleucid Dynasty, marked by internal strife, alliances, and geopolitical complexities.