Lot 172
Seleukid Empire. Seleukos I Nikator Silver Tetradrachm (17.05 g). Susa mint, ca. 305-295 BC. Helmeted head of Seleukos covered with panther skin and adorned with bull's ears and horn; panther skin tied around neck. Reverse: Nike standing to right, wearing peplos, crowning trophy of Macedonian arms set on sapling tree, from which branch sprouts near base; BAΣIΛEΩΣΣEΛEYKOY around, monogram to lower left and in lower central field. SC 173.4; ESM 426; HGC 9, 20. Boldly struck in high relief, excellent metal and lightly toned. Extremely Fine. Estimated Value $4,000 - UP
As quoted in the Roma description, the Trophy series of Seleukos was issued over an extended period. The type is generally assumed to commemorate the victories of Seleukos as he pushed eastwards into India, occupying territory as far as the Indus, and waging war against the Mauryan Empire. This campaign against Chandragupta Maurya was however a failure. While there is no record of what transpired to prevent Seleukos achieving his aims, the two leaders eventually reached an accord whereby Seleukos ceded some of his easternmost territory in exchange for a gift of 500 war elephants. The massive beasts were to play a significant role in the coming wars of the Diadochi, in particular at the Battle of Ipsos in 301 BC….in which Seleukos' elephants played a decisive role in the victory over Antigonos of Macedonia.
Ex Roma Numismatics Ltd, Auction XXV, lot 499.
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| Realized $10,200 |
