Lot 4483

Description

Thrace, Kingdom of, Lysimachos, (323-281 B.C.), silver tetradrachm, (17.10 g), Amphipolis mint, issued 288/7-281 B.C., obv. head of Alexander to right, with diadem and horn of Ammon, within dotted circle, rev. Athena enthroned to left, supporting Nike, spear behind, caduceus to inner left, bee in outer right area, to right **BASILEWS* downwards, to left **LUSIMAXOU* downwards, (cf.S.6814, Thompson 190). Bright, a few minor surface marks, otherwise good very fine and rare.

Ex CNG Electronic Auction No.347 March 25, 2015 (lot 90).

By 285 BC, Pyrrhos' rule over the western portion of Macedon had become onerous to the population, and they called on Lysimachos for help. Lysimachos, a long time friend of the Macedonians, easily occupied the area and incorporated it into his growing kingdom. The historical mints in this region, Amphipolis and Pella were quickly converted to produce Lysimachos type coinage, and subsequently produced a significantly large output of both staters and tetradrachms. It remained a loyal subject until Lysimachos' death.