Lot 3259
Mark Antony and Cleopatra, AE 21 (4.71g), 36-31 BC. Struck at Coel-Syria, Chalkis. Dated regnal years 21 (Egypt) and 6 (Phoenicia) of Cleopatra (32/1 BC). [BACIΛICCHC] KLEOΠA-TPA, diademed and draped bust of Cleopatra right, hair in parallel cornrows gathered into chignon at nape of neck. Reverse: ETOYC KA TOY KAI E TEAC NEωTEPAC, bare head of Mark Antony right. Svoronos 1887. RPC 4771. SNG Copenhagen 383. Obverse a tad off-center, otherwise a pair of sharp portraits of history's most famous power couple, with a pleasing brown patina and light earthen fields. Extremely Fine. Estimate Value $700 - 800
At the famous "donations of Alexandria" in 36 BC, among the many "gifts" illegally bestowed by Antony on Cleopatra was sovereignty over the lands of Coele Syria, now the Beqaa Valley in Lebanon, with its profitable trade in cedar wood and exotic spices. This bronze coin of a city under Cleopatra's control, Chalkis in Coel-Syria, is dated to the sixth year of her sovereignty in the region (32/1 BC). While it hugely increased her wealth and prestige, it also put Cleopatra in emnity with Herod the Great of Judaea, who coveted the same luxury markets. Originally a supporter of Antony, Herod eventually "jumped ship" to join Octavian when civil war broke out in 32 BC.
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| Realized $1,680 |
