ANCIENT: Kingdom of Macedon Alexander III AR Drachm - Heracles & Zeus
Over 2300 years old, this drachm currency was minted during the reign of Alexander III. And it is in a phenomenal condition! Clear features of Heracles (Hercules in Roman mythology) on the obverse show near full detail. Heracles wears a lion’s skin headdress, a traditional attribute of the hero, and often a helmet, reflecting his status as a warrior.
The reverse features Zeus on his throne holding a scepter in his left hand and an eagle sitting on his right hand- a bird that symbolized Zeus’ authority as king of the gods. The eagle also is associated with Zeus’s authority and dominion over the skies.
Alexander III chose these symbols to be put on his coins as he sought to associate himself with legendary figures like Heracles and divine beings like Zeus to legitimize their rule and assert their authority.
Over 2300 years old, this drachm currency was minted during the reign of Alexander III. And it is in a phenomenal condition! Clear features of Heracles (Hercules in Roman mythology) on the obverse show near full detail. Heracles wears a lion’s skin headdress, a traditional attribute of the hero, and often a helmet, reflecting his status as a warrior.
The reverse features Zeus on his throne holding a scepter in his left hand and an eagle sitting on his right hand- a bird that symbolized Zeus’ authority as king of the gods. The eagle also is associated with Zeus’s authority and dominion over the skies.
Alexander III chose these symbols to be put on his coins as he sought to associate himself with legendary figures like Heracles and divine beings like Zeus to legitimize their rule and assert their authority.
Over 2300 years old, this drachm currency was minted during the reign of Alexander III. And it is in a phenomenal condition! Clear features of Heracles (Hercules in Roman mythology) on the obverse show near full detail. Heracles wears a lion’s skin headdress, a traditional attribute of the hero, and often a helmet, reflecting his status as a warrior.
The reverse features Zeus on his throne holding a scepter in his left hand and an eagle sitting on his right hand- a bird that symbolized Zeus’ authority as king of the gods. The eagle also is associated with Zeus’s authority and dominion over the skies.
Alexander III chose these symbols to be put on his coins as he sought to associate himself with legendary figures like Heracles and divine beings like Zeus to legitimize their rule and assert their authority.