Ancient Greek Coins - Agathokles' Victory

Coinweek - Agathokles was the last of the larger-than-life rulers of Syracuse, but he was not merely given the right to the throne. He was born in Thermae in 361 BC to a Greek manufacturer of pottery, but he quickly tired of his father's trade. Upon leaving home and moving to Syracuse, he became an officer within the army, establishing himself as a skillful leader.



AgathoklesIn 317 BC, he overthrew the Syracusan rulers, banishing or murdering all of those who opposed him and, with the support of the common people, inserted himself as dictator.

He formed a large navy and strengthened his army, significantly expanding the power of Syracuse. This growth caused his territory to bump against that of the Carthaginians, a force which would shape and consume the majority of his life.

Read the Entire Article