Alexander the Great of Macedon (b. BC 356-d. 323), is probably the most recognized king and general of the ancient world. In his short lifetime he became King of the Greeks, Pharaoh of Egypt, Shah of Persia and Master of Asia.
During his lifetime he would institute silver tetradrachms made to the Attic Standard ideal 17.2 grams. The obverse the bust of Alexander the Great as Hercules wearing lionskin over his head. The reverse a seated Zeus with his arm outstretched holding an eagle. These abundant coins were minted in numerous cities across Europe, Africa and Asia for nearly 250 years. It would come as no surprise to us that it are these posthumous coins that come down to us nearly every quality and price point.
It amazes me that the last Alexander the Great tetradrachm wouldn't be minted under the authority of a Greek city, or by king in Asia or Africa, but the Romans.
This coin manufactured after the conquest and annexation of the Kingdom of Macedon and later the Four Republics (Meris) and eventually the Roman Province of Macedonia. It was made under the the local authority of Quaestor Aesillas. During the time of the Roman Republic the Quaestor was an elected position and the officer would conduct audits and manage the financial affairs of a given location. Nothing is known about Aesillas other than he plastered his name across these coins. One can only assume he meant business. He could have also realized his opportunity to get into the historical record and took it.
Recently there have been several hoards cointaining these coins, some First Meris Tetradrachms and Thracian Celtic Imitations of the Hellenistic Thasos Tetradrachm. Some of the Celtic tetradrachms are struck over the Aesillas Tetradrachm, which allows scholars more information on dating coins, a lot new research is being conducted now into Imitations of Thasos tetradrachms.
One can draw the conclusion that the Roman Republic had some serious military and financial setbacks in that region dealing with Barbarians.
Of course I could not honor an ancient bean counter if I didn't get the coin for a very good price.
Roman Republic
Province of Macedonia
Thessalonika Mint
Quaestor Aesillas (BC 90-70)
AR Tetradrachm 28 mm x 16.50 grams
Obverse: Flowing hair bust of Alexander the Great, Greek legend, MAKEDONWN (Macedonians) TH mint mark behind bust
Reverse: Club of Hercules center, Coin Chest left field, Quaestor's chair right field. Surround be a wreath.
Ref:BMC 81-83; Dewing 1224-1225
Posted 03/25/2015 9:50 pm
