Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt. Byblos. Ptolemy I Soter (As satrap) 323-305 BC. In the name and types of Alexander III of Macedon
Tetradrachm AR
27 mm, 16,74 g
Head of Herakles to right, wearing lion skin headdress / Zeus Aëtophoros seated to left, holding sceptre; AΛEΞANΔPOY to right, [OI] under throne, [B] in left field.
Very Fine
Price 3420 (Berytos); HGC 10, 103 (Berytos).
Ptolemy I Soter, a key figure in the Hellenistic world, was one of Alexander the Great's most trusted generals and later became the founder of the Ptolemaic dynasty in Egypt. Born around 367 BC, Ptolemy was a Macedonian nobleman and a close companion of Alexander, participating in his campaigns across the Persian Empire. After Alexander's death in 323 BC, his vast empire was divided among his generals, known as the Diadochi. Ptolemy seized control of Egypt, where he established himself as satrap and later declared himself king in 305 BC, founding the Ptolemaic dynasty that would rule Egypt for nearly three centuries. Ptolemy I proved to be a shrewd and effective ruler, consolidating his power in Egypt and expanding his influence across the eastern Mediterranean. He established Alexandria as the new capital, which quickly became a major cultural and intellectual center of the Hellenistic world. Ptolemy was also responsible for founding the famous Library of Alexandria, which became the greatest repository of knowledge in the ancient world. In addition to his administrative and cultural achievements, Ptolemy was a capable military leader, successfully defending Egypt against rival Diadochi and securing his kingdom's borders. He also promoted the cult of Alexander, presenting himself as the rightful heir to Alexander's legacy, which helped legitimize his rule. Ptolemy's reign marked the beginning of a stable and prosperous period for Egypt, during which it became one of the most powerful and wealthy states of the Hellenistic world. He ruled until his death in 282 BC, after which he was succeeded by his son, Ptolemy II Philadelphus. Ptolemy I was deified after his death, earning the title "Soter," meaning "Savior," reflecting his role in establishing the Ptolemaic dynasty and securing Egypt's position as a leading power in the ancient world.
Price realized | -- |
Starting price | 500 EUR |