Photo Credit: Sphinx Numismatics
Ptolemaic Kings of Egypt Ptolemy IV 221-205 BC AE 43mm (75.51 g) VF
Buy It Now Price: $395 (price as of 2016; item no longer available)
Pros:
-This is an outstanding example of an oversized Ptolemaic Egyptian bronze coin. The Ptolemies ruled a Greek Hellenistic kingdom founded by a general of Alexander the Great. They controlled Egypt from the late 4th century BC until about 30 AD. The infamous Cleopatra was the last of the Ptolemaic dynasty.
-This particular coin was struck in the port city of Alexandria during the reign of Ptolemy IV Philopator, who ruled from 221 BC to 205 BC. He was a weak ruler who indulged his vices endlessly, allowing sycophants and lovers to control the kingdom in his stead.
-This Ptolemaic bronze coin is huge, with a diameter of 43 millimeters (1.69 inches) and a weight of 75.51 grams (2.66 ounces)! This easily places it among the largest ancient bronze coins ever struck.
- This coin is in a pleasing Very Fine condition. It is difficult to find ancient bronze coins in such a good state of preservation.
-The coin is boldly struck and problem free. The rich, chocolate brown patina and fine execution of the obverse portrait of Zeus give the specimen tremendous eye appeal.
-The seller is Sphinx Numismatics, a well regarded Canadian dealer specializing in ancient and Islamic medieval coins.
Cons:
-At $395, the coin is at the top end of the price range for Ptolemaic Egyptian bronze coins. However, the price is well justified by the exceptional quality and beauty of the piece. Only the finest museum quality Ptolemaic bronze coins would be more expensive than this specimen.
