Macedonian Kingdom. Alexander III 'the Great'. Silver Tetradrachm (17.18 g), 336-323 BC. Kyzikos, ca. 280-275 BC. Head of Herakles right, wearing lion's skin headdress. Reverse: AΛEΞANΔPOY, Zeus seated left, holding eagle and scepter; in left field, torch and monogram; below throne, monogram. Price 1340. Beautiful fine style. Excellent metal and lightly toned. Superb Extremely Fine. Estimated Value $2,000 - UP
Situated adjacent to the mouth of the river Aisepos on the southwest shore of the Propontis, Kyzikos was purported to be the first in a long line of Milesian colonies. The city possessed two fine harbors, both contributing greatly to its growth and prosperity. Traders plying the routes between the Aegean and Black Seas often stopped at Kyzikos to load tunnies, a main export as the fish were plentiful in the waters thereabouts.This beautiful tetradrachm was struck early in the 3rd century BC and utilizes the types of Alexander the Great's coinage. The head of Herakles is in high relief, and skillfully modeled with a lifelike semblance. Perfect centering along with th sharp, clear details of the designs, and the lovely overall style of the engraving should draw strong attention to this lovely coin.
Ex Goldberg 106 (4 September 2018), 1035; Lee Rousseau Collection.