Lot 4108
Egypt, Ptolemaic Kingdom. Berenike II, wife of Ptolemy III, Euergetes, 246-221 BC. Gold Oktadrachm (27.79g). Minted at Alexandria, ca. 244/243-221 BC. Veiled and draped bust right of Berenike II. Reverse: BEPENIKHΣ BAΣIΛIΣΣHΣ. Cornucopiae bound with fringed fillet. SNG Copenhagen 169; Svoronos 1113. A gem of a specimen struck in high relief. An absolutely marvelous example. Lustrous. Superb Extremely Fine.
No regal series of the Hellenistic Age can rival the large gold denominations produced by the Ptolemaic kings of Egypt. This beautiful oktadrachm issued under Ptolemy III, Euergetes (246-221 BC) has a sensitive portrait of his wife Berenike II, daughter of Magas, governor and subsequently king of Kyrenaica. Probably struck during her husband's absence from Egypt during the Third Syrian War, Berenike's surprisingly extensive coinage comprises a full range of gold, silver, and bronze denominations.
These were the first coins in Egypt to bear the name and title of a reigning queen, and they were long remembered in antiquity as an issue of special significance. On the death of Ptolemy III in 222 BC, Berenike became joint ruler with her son Ptolemy IV. However, the new ruler was weak willed and soon came under the influence of unworthy favorites who persuaded him to have Berenike poisoned.
Estimated Value $30,000 - 40,000.
The Hunter Collection.
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| Realized $41,400 |
