Ptolemaic Bronze Coin Denomination Series

All content, design, and descriptions are (C)2006-10 by Daniel Wolf
All rights reserved worldwide. No copying, use, or distribution without written permission. Many thanks to additional photo contributors who are credited as shown.

Ptolemy I-II - Alexandria - Pre-Reform ca. 280-265BC This denomination series consists of two coin sizes in certain series and up to four sizes in others. They share two denominations in common; the laureate Zeus 'diobol' (ca. 16gm) and an Alexander wearing elephantskin headdress 'obol' (ca. 8gm). The coins we normally assign to Ptolemy I have no leg control letters but only letters and monograms to the left of the eagle (shown at left) and may consist of up to four sizes. There are numerous leg control letters in the second two series with SIGMA over shield and SIGMA over shield over XA(P) we assign to Ptolemy II. There are clearly related types of diobols and obols throughout this period with linked control marks and other symbols placed similarly and spanning both sizes. This coinage begins at an indeterminate time perhaps as early as about 290BC and dominated the bronze issues for perhaps 30 years or longer. The presumed order of temporal succession is shown left to right. We believe the earliest are the types with only letters or monograms to the left of the eagle, likely begun under Ptolemy I and continued into the reign of Ptolemy II. These are followed by the series of Ptolemy II with SIGMA over a Galatian shield, and ending with the series with an additional complex monogram under the shield (XAP). One similar set that display SIGMA over shield over SIGMA IOTA. It consists of only two coins (not shown here): Sv554 (ALPHA/PHI control) and Sv564 (DELTA control), both diobols. None of these early coins show the distinctive central depressions seen on the later 'post-reform' series. Nor is the familiar cornucopia in evidence. The post-reform series (see below) appear to adopt mintmarks (combinatinons of club, cornucopiae, and/or monogram) with central depressions indicating a new method of manufacture, and the later series reflect more extensive groups of denominations and sizes both much larger as well as smaller. It is likely these are all issues of Alexandria. This is a remarkable group in that there are over 80 catalogued types with different control letter and monogram combinations.
28mm - 16gm A - Sv184 IG - Sv193 L/M - Sv206 G - Sv213 PI/Y - Sv219 PHI - Sv230 A/various - Sv269-303 S - Sv550	22mm - 8gm D - Sv186 DI - Sv188 A - Sv196 M/I - Sv202 S - Sv215 PI/Y - Sv220 PI/Y - Sv225 TI - Sv226 XA - Sv235 EP - Sv237 EY/KL - Sv356 EY/M - Sv360 EY/XAP - Sv363 EY/KI/XAP - Sv377 ST/KI/A - Sv379	18mm - 4gm L/PI - Sv51 OT - Sv119 PI T - Sv130 TI - Sv135 TS - Sv136 DI - Sv189 Aplustre/Helmet - Sv172	13mm - 2gm H - Sv???	28mm - 16gm A/T - Sv553 PI/A - Sv556 A - Sv560 D - Sv563 E - Sv568 Th - Sv571 I - Sv576 L - Sv580 O - Sv586 RHO - Sv593 Y - Sv598 PHI - Svxxx none - Sv600	20mm - 8gm D - Sv565 none - Sv601	28mm - 16gm PI/A - Sv557 A - Sv561 Th - Sv572 I - Sv577 L - Sv581 O - Sv587 G - Sv589 T - Sv594	20mm - 8gm A - Sv562 D - Sv565 L - Sv582 none - Sv602

Ptolemy II - Syracuse - Pre-Reform ca. 270-260BC This denomination series consists a small series of enigmatic style and a single denomination. On most of these types the control, if present, is placed near the tail of the eagle. An additional type not shown here has the control (NK or Phi) above or below the shield. There is very convincing evidence that these coins were issued by Hieron II of Syracuse: the style of laureate Zeus is quite different from the preceding groups (see above), they are found only in Sicily, control placement is unusual, die axes are highly variable, most types have a reverse with a solid circle border, there is no obol denomination, the 'cupped' reverse manufacturing style resembles that of Hieron's portrait bronzes, and there are shared controls (N and PHI) between these coins and some Hieron portrait bronzes. The Zeus portrait style is also artistically similar to the Poseidon portraits of Hieron's smaller coinage with trident and dolphins on the reverse, distinctly Sicilian in style and quite easily distinguished from contemporary Egyptian Zeus portraiture. A paper on this very interesting group of coins is available via a link on the home page of The PtolemAE project. The dating and duration of issue for this series is problematic, beginning no earlier than 275BC but terminating at a time that is yet to be determined.
28mm - 18gm none - Sv610 Type I - Dotted reverse border	28mm - 18gm none - Sv610 Type II - Circle reverse border	28mm - 18gm A - Sv615	28mm - 18gm N - Sv619 Type I - Dotted reverse border	28mm - 18gm N - Sv619 Type II - Circle reverse border	28mm - 18gm N Below Shield - Sv620	28mm - 18gm PHI - Sv623

Ptolemy II - Alexandria Series - Post-Reform ca. 260BC This denomination series consists of at least 7 coin sizes. There are numerous leg monograms (Theta, Lamda, Iota, Rho, Delta, etc.) in this series so various nice examples are presented here from the PtolemAE collection (one size substituted by a comparable style issue of Tyre - see below). Svoronos catalog numbers are numerous and not all sizes are known in all monogram varieties. Sizes and weights shown here are the 'nominal ideal' for the types. Actual sizes and weights may vary somewhat due to the striking and manufacturing technology at the time. The idea here is to present the coins as a coherent series. You may also view these same coins with detailed information about each one elsewhere on the PtolemAE Project web site. Monograms are abbreviated in English below (nm=NONE, A=ALPHA, B=BETA, D=DELTA, E=EPSILON, I=IOTA, Th=THETA, L=LAMDA, P=RHO, T=TAU, Y=UPSILON, O=OMICRON, X=CHI, W=OMEGA). Some examples show a combination UPSILON/TAU (Y with a cross mark) monogram. When viewing the Tyre, Sidon, and Ptolemais series below note that the main design types largely match the Alexandria series which makes these all fit together into a picture of one coherent coinage. The provincial mint series do not have any leg monograms but all show the typical mintmark indications of their locations.
42mm - 72gm Sv413 - nm Sv422 - A Sv431 - B Sv437 - D Sv447 - E Sv457 - I Sv463 - Th Sv464 - Th/ME Sv479 - L Sv497 - P Sv504 - T Sv504 - Y/T Sv514 - X	38mm - 48gm Sv414 - nm Sv448 - E Sv480 - L Sv505 - T or Y/T Sv515 - X	30mm - 24gm Sv415 - nm Sv423 - A Sv438 - D Sv449 - E Sv465 - Th(O) Sv466 - ME/Th Sv480 - L Sv498 - P Sv506 - T or Y/T	24mm - 12gm Sv424 - A Sv439 - D Sv450 - E Sv467 - Th Sv482 - L Sv493 - O Sv499 - P Sv507 - T Sv511 - Y Sv519 - W	20mm - 8gm Sv416 - nm Sv425 - A Sv440 - D Sv451 - E Sv468 - T Sv473 - I Sv483 - L Sv493 - O Sv500 - P	18mm - 6gm Sv417 - nm Sv441 - D Sv452 - E Sv469 - Th Sv473 - I Sv484 - L Sv501 - P	15mm - 3gm Sv418 - nm Sv431 - B Sv442 - D Sv453 - E Sv470 - Th(O) Sv474 - I Sv485 - L Sv493 - O

Ptolemy II - Sidon Double Cornucopia Series This denomination series consists of at least 5 coins with double cornucopiae as the prominent feature of the reverse that distinguishes these from the parallel Alexandria series. Sizes and weights shown here are the 'nominal ideal' for the types. Actual sizes and weights may vary somewhat due to the striking and manufacturing technology at the time. The idea here is to present the coins as a coherent series. You may also view these same coins with detailed information about each one elsewhere on the PtolemAE Project web site.
42mm - 72gm Sv758 - Double Cornucopia on eagle shoulder	38mm - 48gm Sv759 - Double Cornucopia in left field	30mm - 24gm Sv760 - Double Cornucopia on eagle shoulder	24mm - 12gm Sv763 - Double Cornucopia in left field. This type may actually be Ptolemy I or belong to an issue without center depressions prior to about 265BC.	24mm - 12gm Sv761 - Double Cornucopia in left field	20mm - 6gm Sv762 - Double Cornucopia on eagle shoulder	17mm - 4gm Sv??? - Double Cornucopia on eagle shoulder. Uncatalogued type - uncertain if it belongs to this series or a later issue of Ptolemy IV or V. Appears to be a member of this series.

Ptolemy II - Tyre Double Cornucopia/Club Series This denomination series consists of at least 5 coins with double cornucopiae as the prominent feature of the reverse that distinguishes these from the parallel Alexandria series. In addition this series features a club in the left field to distinguish them from the Sidon series coins. Svoronos attributed these to Gaza but the typical club feature of other Ptolemaic Tyre coins and find locations in and around Lebanon seems to indicate they are from the major Ptolemaic mint in Tyre. Sizes and weights shown here are the 'nominal ideal' for the types. Actual sizes and weights may vary somewhat due to the striking and manufacturing technology at the time. The idea here is to present the coins as a coherent series. You may also view these same coins with detailed information about each one elsewhere on the PtolemAE Project web site.
42mm - 72gm Sv834 - Double Cornucopia on eagle shoulder, club in left field	38mm - 48gm Sv835 - Double Cornucopia and club in left field	30mm - 24gm SvXXX - Double cornucopia on eagle shoulder and club in left field - not catalogued in Svoronos or any other reference. Three known specimens.	24mm - 12gm Sv836 - Double cornucopia and club in left field	20mm - 6gm Sv837 - Double cornucopia on eagle shoulder with club in left field. It is likely this type does not really exist.	16mm - 6gm Sv838 - Cornucopia on eagle shoulder and club in left field

Ptolemy II - Ake Ptolemais Double Cornucopia/Circled-PI-TAU Series This denomination series consists of only 3 coin types with double cornucopiae as the prominent feature of the reverse that distinguishes these from the parallel Alexandria series and unifies them with Tyre and Sidon (see above). In addition this series features a CIRCLE-PI-TAU monogram in the left field identifying them as originating from Ake Ptolemais. In contrast to the related denomination series from Sidon and Tyre, only these 3 sizes and weight denominations are known. Sizes and weights shown here are the 'nominal ideal' for the types. Actual sizes and weights may vary somewhat due to the striking and manufacturing technology at the time. The idea here is to present the coins as a coherent series. The last coin shown has a somewhat different style and might reflect an issue of a later reign, possibly Ptolemy V.
42mm - 72gm Sv788 - Double Cornucopia on eagle shoulder with CIRCLE-PI-TAU in left field	38mm - 48gm Sv789 - Double Cornucopia and CIRCLE-PI-TAU in left field	30mm - 24gm Sv790 - Double cornucopia on eagle shoulder and CIRCLE-PI-TAU in left field.	30mm - 18gm Sv790v - Double cornucopia on eagle shoulder and CIRCLE-PI-TAU in left field.

Ptolemy II - DELTA IOTA Series This denomination series consists of several types which may reflect issues over more than one reign. The coins are enigmatic singly and when considered together, with the DELTA IOTA in common but some also showing a 'palm branch' or a star in combination with the letter pair. Their origin is uncertain but likely a Phoenician mint. The two largest coins depicting laureate Zeus are consistent with early Ptolemy II diobols, though a bit light, but the smallest types may have central depressions indicating a later mintage (after ca. 260BC). Stylistically all are compatible with Ptolemy II but the smaller pieces could be issues as late as Ptolemy IV. The smallest denomination appears to be a depiction of Arsinoe, veiled, but which Arsinoe (I, II, or III) is unclear. Whether the DELTA IOTA letter pair on these coins is related to the same pair found as control letters in the eagle legs on coins of Ptolemy IV is also not known. The two smallest specimens here appear to show LAMDA IOTA, though it could well be these are simply slightly unclear versions of the DELTA IOTA. The two coins with DELTA IOTA over palm branch are clearly related and in the same sense as we see on other early Ptolemy I-II diobol/obol relationships. All are rare.
30mm - 12gm Sv341 - DELTA IOTA at left	30mm - 15gm Sv381 - DELTA IOTA over a palm branch at left	21mm - 8gm Sv382 - DELTA IOTA over a palm branch at left	23mm - 8gm Sv384 - DELTA IOTA (LAMDA IOTA?) over star over PI-Y at left	18mm - 4gm Sv383 - DELTA IOTA over X (star ?) at left

Ptolemy II - III - Proto-Natabaean Overstrikes This group is not, strictly speaking, a particular denomination series of one ruler. They demonstrate that early Nabataean coinage seems to have relied on existing circulating Ptolemaic coins, particularly those of Ptolemy II and III, to serve as flans. These coins are fairly scarce and the overstriking (of a type sometimes attributed to Aretas II, Athena obverse over standing Nike reverse) almost always obliterates the undertype to a degree that makes the undertype not specifically identifiable. In very rare cases we can be absolutely certain about the undertype and can see that they are (usually small) coins of Ptolemy II and III. It appears there are also coins of Ptolemy IV that have been used but are not shown here. These very interesting types tell us that Nabataean coinage appears to have started no earlier than about 200BC but perhaps earlier than is clear from the (presumably later) types that are not overstruck. The types of Ptolemy II shown here (at left) are most likely either Svoronos 417 (Zeus / open-wing eagle) and possibly others with control letters no longer visible. The coins at right are likely (and some clearly identifiable) types of Ptolemy III. Two coins show the typical cornucopia at the left of the eagle and with one coin displaying the CHI-RHO. The coins shown here are oriented to show the Ptolemaic coin undertype. Interestingly, some of the coins are struck in a 'reverse sense' (obverse Nabataean type on reverse of Ptolemaic type) and others are 'normal sense' overstrikes.
19mm - 4gm Likely Sv 417 - Open wing eagle reverse, Ptolemy II	16mm - 4gm Sv??? - Closed wing eagle reverse, possibly Ptolemy III	18mm - 3gm Sv??? - Closed-wing eagle reverse, possibly Ptolemy III	18mm - 4gm Sv969 - CHI-RHO monogram	15mm - 3gm Sv970 - CHI-RHO monogram

Ptolemy III - Alexandria EPSILON or LAMDA Series This denomination series consists of at least 7 coins that comprise a denomination series for which most sizes exist as both EPSILON and LAMDA monogram types. The two largest sizes are also known in 'no monogram' types. The E monogram types are also well known to exist in some variations with closed loops at the top of the E and similar morphologies. The 2nd size E monogram (Sv974 and variants of the E morphology) coins are very plentiful, among the most common types of Ptolemaic bronzes. Here are shown a mix of both monograms to illustrate the full denomination series with the best coins in the PtolemAE Collection. Lorber has attributed these coins to the early part of the reign of Ptolemy III while some other references differ. Sizes and weights shown here are the 'nominal ideal' for the types. Actual sizes and weights may vary somewhat due to the striking and manufacturing technology at the time. The idea here is to present the coins as a coherent series. You may also view these same coins with detailed information about each one elsewhere on the PtolemAE Project web site. In the following tabular presentation, the following indicate monogram types: E = EPSILON, L = LAMDA, nm = NONE.
48mm - 96gm Sv412 - nm Sv446 - E(and var) Sv478 - L Sv482 - THETA Sv502 - S (existence doubtful) A - known but not in Svoronos	40mm - 48gm Sv1172 - nm Sv1166 - L Sv974 - E(var) A - known but not in Svoronos C - known but not in Svoronos	36mm - 32gm Sv1167 - L SV974a - E A - SNG Cop 222 nm - known but not in Svoronos	32mm - 24gm Sv1168 - L	28mm - 16gm Sv1169 - L Sv975 - E(var) C - known but not in Svoronos	24mm - 12gm Sv1170 - L Sv976 - E(var) C - known but not in Svoronos.	22mm - 6gm Sv??? - nm. Not catalogued. Appears to be the 1/2 size of Sv975, 1169. The Zeus style also may put this coin later from Ptolemy IV or V.	20mm - 6gm Sv1171 - L

Ptolemy III - Alexandria Cornucopia Series with CHI/RHO and PLAIN (No Control) This denomination series consists of 8 coins all with the well-known CHI/RHO leg monogram and corresponding coins with no monogram (rare, not all sizes known). Most references agree that the attribution of all of these coins are to the mid or later part of the reign of Ptolemy III. Sizes and weights shown here are the 'nominal ideal' for the types. Actual sizes and weights may vary somewhat due to the striking and manufacturing technology at the time. The idea here is to present the coins as a coherent series. You may also view these same coins with detailed information about each one elsewhere on the PtolemAE Project web site. We show here the Chi/Rho monogram abbreviated as XP and the plain or no-monogram type as: nm.
42mm - 72gm Sv964 - XP Sv1002 - nm	36mm - 36gm Sv965 - XP Sv1003 - nm	30mm - 24gm Sv966 - XP Sv1004 - nm	24mm - 12gm Sv967 - XP nm type not known.	20mm - 6gm Sv968 - XP nm type known but not catalogued in Svoronos.	16mm - 4gm Sv969 - XP nm type known but not catalogued in Svoronos.	15mm - 3gm Sv970 - XP nm type ?	12mm - 1gm Sv971 - XP nm type ?

Ptolemy III - Tyre Club Series This denomination series consists of at least 7 coins all with the well-known club mintmark in the left field on the reverse. These coins 'parallel' the Alexandria series of CHI/RHO coins with cornucopia in the left field. Svoronos attributes these to Ptolemy II but the style and parallelism to the Ptolemy III CHI/RHO series seem to indicate Ptolemy III is more likely. Sizes and weights shown here are the 'nominal ideal' for the types. Actual sizes and weights may vary somewhat due to the striking and manufacturing technology at the time. The idea here is to present the coins as a coherent series. You may also view these same coins with detailed information about each one elsewhere on the PtolemAE Project web site. As with the coinage from provincial mints by Ptolemy II, this series lacks leg monograms. These might be contemporaneous with either the scarce no-monogram cornucopia types of Alexandria or the CHI/RHO series or both. I feel the latter is more likely as most of these types are not rare with the exception of the largest coin which is extremely rare. The CHI/RHO cornucopia coinage of Alexandria is a dominant and prodigious coinage as are most of these.
42mm - 72gm Sv705	36mm - 36gm Sv706	30mm - 24gm Sv707	24mm - 12gm Sv708	20mm - 6gm Sv709	18mm - 4gm Sv710	16mm - 3gm Sv711

Ptolemy III - Trident Series This denomination series consists of 3 small coins all with an identical appearance, differing only in size/weight. The largest coin with Alexander in elephantskin headdress on the obverse is enigmatic and catalogued as a later issue in Svoronos (Svoronos 1063). Nevertheless its cornucopia at shoulder reverse is analogous to some small issues of Ptolemy III. It is extremely rare and its reignal attribution is subject to further analysis. The two smaller coins show the familiar Zeus Ammon obverse, accompanied by a closed wing eagle and a trident on the reverse. These coins are attributed by Svoronos to Berytos (Beirut) but modern finds indicate they are most likely from the area near (modern) Bodrum in Turkey. Ptolemaic possessions during the 3rd C. BC were scattered around the Mediterranean and these are likely coins from one of the Ptolemaic settlements of that time. See the book by Roger Bagnall on Ptolemaic possessions outside Egypt. All are relatively scarce.
20mm - 6gm Sv1063	15mm - 3gm Sv839	12mm - 1.5gm Sv840

Ptolemy III - Joppa Mint Harpa Series This denomination series consists of 3 small coins all with an identical appearance, differing only in size/weight. The familiar Zeus Ammon obverse is accompanied by a closed wing eagle and a 'harpa' mintmark of Joppa (Jaffa) on the reverse. The largest size, ca. 6gm, is not shown here and is known from a single example, not catalogued in major references, ex. Don Doswell's collection sold at the Gemini Sale 2009. All are relatively scarce.

16mm - 3gm Sv819

15mm - 1.5gm Sv820

Ptolemy III - Aphrodite Statue Series This denomination series consists of 5 coins all with an identical appearance, differing only in size/weight. The familiar Zeus Ammon obverse is accompanied by a 'cult statue of Aphrodite' on the reverse.
30mm - 18gm Sv1005	25mm - 12gm Sv1006	20mm - 6gm Sv1007	17mm - 3gm Sv1008	15mm - 2gm Sv1009

Ptolemy III-IV - Tripod Series This denomination series consists of coins all with similar appearance, differing only in size/weight. The largest coin is uncatalogued and somwhat (stylistically speaking) enigmatic. It is somewhat heavier and larger than Svoronos 791, and its reignal attribution is subject to further analysis, tentatively attributed here to Ptolemy IV on the basis of its reverse lettering style and rather different style, somewhat more crude, of the tripod. The two smaller coin types show the familiar Zeus Ammon obverse, accompanied by a closed wing eagle and a trident on the reverse, with clean sharp lettering and carefully executed tripod. These coins are attributed by Svoronos to Ake Ptolemais (Acre) but modern finds indicate they are most likely from the area near (modern) Bodrum in Turkey. See the Trident series, above. Ptolemaic possessions during the 3rd C. BC were scattered around the Mediterranean and these are likely coins from one of the Ptolemaic settlements of that time. See the book by Roger Bagnall on Ptolemaic possessions outside Egypt. All are relatively scarce. Examples of Svoronos 791 are sometimes found with a single letter (A or B) countermark in a circular punch on the reverse, an 'A' example shown here. Svoronos also catalogued as 792 a coin supposedly showing a Ptolemais mint mark (encirled PI) to the right of the eagle from one example, not illustrated in his plates and not found in other references. Note also (see below) that some coins of other series are known with tripod countermarks which may indicate their validation for circulation in this region during a time when coins were either in short supply, not being minted at the time, or needed in larger sizes than minted locally.
26mm - 12-14gm Sv-	24mm - 10-12gm Sv791	24mm - 12gm Sv791 w/A Countermark	18mm - 4.5gm Sv793

Ptolemy III-IV - Early Lotus Blossom Series This denomination series consists of 4 coins all with an identical appearance, differing only in size/weight. The familiar Zeus Ammon obverse is accompanied by closed-wing eagle on the reverse with the lotus blossom in the same position where we see a cornucopia or club on some other series. The very close similarity of the style and fabric led to including these together though the Svoronos cataloging and other references may differ in reignal attribution. The style and fabric compare with other types attributed to Ptolemy IV and the lotus flowers on these are all rendered so similarly (as well as the portrait and eagle) that they seem to belong together. As you can see here the largest is attributed by Svoronos as number 1404, Ptolemy VI; the others as Ptolemy II (841-843).
38mm - 48gm Sv1404	28mm - 16gm Sv841	22mm - 8gm Sv842	17mm - 4gm Sv843

Ptolemy IV - Alexandria Cornucopia Series I This denomination series differs from the previous series because of the limited coin size ranges. We have only the 'drachm' and 'hemidrachm', with two similar leg monogram types, from Alexandria (cornucopia to left of the eagle). LI = LAMDA IOTA. DI = DELTA IOTA.
42mm - 72gm Sv1125 - DI	36mm - 36gm Sv1127 - DI	42mm - 72gm Sv1126 - LI	36mm - 36gm Sv1128 - LI

Ptolemy IV - Alexandria Series II This series has leg control/monogram variations of SIGMA, SIGMA EPSILON, or SIGMA IOTA EPSILON, in 5 sizes, from Alexandria. As in the earlier series (with DELTA IOTA and LAMDA IOTA) we find drachm and hemidrachm sizes, In addition there are tetrobols, diobols, and one known hemiobol with SIGMA (shown here). One very unusual large coin, shown here, has the SIGMA EPSILON monogram in retrograde, known in only two examples (the other in Weiser, Koeln). The later series (see below) has the tetraobols and diobols of similar types showing countermarks and some with different control symbols or none at all.
42mm - 72gm Sv992 - S/SE	42mm - 72gm Sv992 - S/SE Two examples known with SE retrograde shown here (see Weiser).	38mm - 48gm Sv1148 - S/SE no countermark	36mm - 36gm Sv993 - S/SE/SIE Example known with SE retrograde (Weiser).	30mm - 24gm Sv1151 - S/SE Also known with the cornucopia countermark like Sv1149.	18mm - 4gm Not catalogued in Svoronos - S/SE	15mm - 3gm Not catalogued in Svoronos - S/SE

Ptolemy IV - Alexandria Series III This series has countermarked tetrobols and diobols with the controls of Alexandria Series II (above) as well as tetrobols with different controls (even unmarked). In addition there are early examples of two-eagle reverses with unusual Zeus heads that have a larger Ammon horn positioned at the top or front of the head. By the time of this later series the issue of drachm and hemidrachm coins was no longer practised, making the tetrobol the largest circulating coin and perhaps the only type produced during this period late in the reign of Ptolemy IV. The unusual Ammon horn types were found together with other countermarked types of similar size and different controls in the Coinex hoard. All of these types are likely attributable to a period late in the reign of Ptolemy IV when bronze coin valuation was redefined.
38mm - 48gm Sv1149 - SE w/cornucopia countermark	30mm - 24gm Sv1151 - S/SE w/cornucopia countermark	38mm - 48gm Sv1142 - PI-Y-A w/cornucopia countermark inverted at right	38mm - 48gm Sv1140 - PI-Y-E control without countermark	38mm - 48gm Svxxxx - Unmarked type not cataloged.	38mm - 48gm Sv1423v1 - unmarked - Zeus with Ammon horn at top of head, two eagles, crude style	38mm - 48gm Sv1423v2 - unmarked - Zeus with Ammon horn at forehead, two eagles

Ptolemy IV - Tyre Series I Only the drachm and hemidrachm, with two leg control symbol combinations, from Tyre (club to left of the eagle) are catalogued in Svoronos. One rare hemidrachm (uncatalogued) is also shown here with DELTA IOTA controls that also has an ivy leaf countermark on the club (one other specimen known). A hemidrachm with retrograde SIGMA EPSILON monogram is catalogued in Weiser (Koeln) - see the Alexandria drachm with retrograde SIGMA EPSILON above. Additional uncatalogued types have come to light in the three smaller denominations with SIGMA shown here and a few others listed here. The Ptolemy IV coinage of Tyre appears to encompass more control symbol types and sizes than were known until recently. LI = LAMDA IOTA. DI = DELTA IOTA. S=SIGMA. SE=SIGMA EPSILON.
42mm - 72gm Sv1129 - LI or DI The two control combinations are not distinguished in Svoronos.	36mm - 36gm Sv1130 - LI or DI The two control combinations are not distinguished in Svoronos.	36mm - 36gm Sv1130 - LI or DI The two control combinations are not distinguished in Svoronos. With ivy-leaf countermark on the club shown here.	24mm - 12gm Sv??? - DI Sv??? - S Sv??? - SE Types not catalogued in Svoronos. Double-size of Svoronos 1153.	18mm - 6gm Svoronos 1153 - SE	15mm - 3gm Sv??? - S Type not catalogued in Svoronos. One-half of Svoronos 1153

Ptolemy IV-V - Tyre Series II These denomination series also have limited coin size ranges. There are actually three different series with different controls. We have only the 'hemidrachm' and smaller sizes, with two main leg monogram types for this unusual 'decorated' series. Tyre issues of these unusual 'decorated' reverse designs have PI, PI-T, PI-T-O, and AP (ALPHA RHO) monograms. This is an enigmatic series for which the basis of the highly decorated reverses is not known, though the combination of filetted cornucopiaea on the eagle's shoulders with a club (of Tyre) or other mintmark is seen on some coins of Ptolemy II. The PI control letter, exergal letters, and unusual decorations (caps of the dioscuri, stars, etc.) are echoed in some silver and gold issues that tie these most likely to Ptolemy V. A precise attribution for the others remains a topic of scholarly investigation. Those with PI-T and PI-T-O are attributed by some to Ptolemais but the use of mint designations in the usual position of control letters as well as the clear presence of the (presumably) Tyre club mark is good reason to question that, as is the existence of related precious metal coins bearing related control marks that are likely attributable to other Phoenician mints. We show these series together here because they unusual 'decorations' on the reverse and Tyre club seem to make them related to one another but the reignal attribution may indeed span Ptolemy IV and V. The production quality of some AP types (such as the hemidrachm shown here) is high enough, with carefully made very round flan with clean rounded edges as well as high artistic quality of its reverse, to suggest even production under Ptolemy III. Two coins shown here merit additional attention. The coin with caduceus countermark is apparently unique and the caduceus as a countermark is not on any other Ptolemaic coins we have seen nor mentioned in Noeske's paper on countermarks of Ptolemaic coins. The city location or other meaning of the caduceus countermark is unknown but that symbol is associated with certain Greek cities such as Tarsos, as is the club seen on some Tarsos coins. It is possible these are Asia Minor issues yet to be better understood. Parts of Cilicia were under Ptolemaic control for much of the 3rd C. BC and only taken by Antiochos III near its end. The coin with PI-T-O control with a size in between Svoronos 1058 and 1060, a 'half size' of Sv 1058, appears to be a unique specimen as well. The AP control types are the most frequently seen, sometimes nicely made (as the example shown here) and other times somewhat crude and of poor metal. The other types are all moderately to extremely scarce. The larger coins of these types sometimes show striations under the Zeus figure which appear to be part of the die itself, possibly indicating a re-working of an earlier die after removing its original somewhat design. These are altogether enigmatic, scarce, and among the more interesting Ptolemaic bronzes of the 3rd C. BC. It is possible these represent the last Ptolemaic bronze coinage of Tyre before it fell to Antiochos III during the reign of Ptolemy V, or perhaps some of them are from an Asia Minor location that fell to Seleukid control a bit earlier.
36mm - 36gm Sv1251 - AP	18mm - 4gm Sv1252 - AP	16mm - 2gm Sv1253 - AP	36mm - 36gm Sv1058 - PI-T-O	36mm - 36gm Sv1058 - PI-T-O This specimen (unique) with caduceus countermark at right.	28mm - 18gm Svxxxx - PI-T-O Uncatalogued type similar to 1/2 denomination of Sv1058.	20mm - 6gm Sv1060 - PI-T	36mm - 36gm Sv1059 - PI Unusual EP in exergue.	28mm - 18gm Sv1320 - PI Unusual IE in exergue.

Ptolemy V - Alexandria Series I This series consists of 6 coins with varied obverse portrait types and no control symbols. Svoronos 1495 seems to be identical in type to Svoronos 1236, see below. Interestingly this series reintroduces the Alexander-in-Elephantskin obverse figure not seen on medium-size coins since the coinage of Ptolemy II. Interestingly this obverse type, seen on 'obols' of Ptolemy II and on two very small coins of the Chi-Rho series of Ptolemy III, seems to be excluded entirely from the coinage of Ptolemy IV.
35mm - 30gm Sv1491	30mm - 24gm Sv1492	25mm - 16gm Sv1493	24mm - 12gm Sv1494	22mm - 8gm Sv1495	17mm - 4gm Sv1496

Ptolemy V - Alexandria Isis Portrait Series (Series II) This series consists of 7 coins, all with Isis portrait on the obverse except Svoronos 1236 which has Alexander in Elephantskin. Usually with no control symbol. The specimen here of Svoronos 1233 has a THETA leg control symbol, not catalogued but related to a coin in Weiser.
35mm - 30gm Sv1233	30mm - 24gm Sv1234	25mm - 16gm Sv1235	22mm - 8gm Sv1236	20mm - 6gm Sv1237	18mm - 4gm Sv1238	16mm - 3gm Sv1239

Ptolemy V - Alexandria Series with KAPPA Control Symbol This denomination series consists of five coins with leg monogram KAPPA and introduces the design with Alexander wearing Elephantskin to the Ptolemaic bronzes. The largest size is unusual in that the symbol to the left of the eagle is a star, and occasionally this type is found with a cornucopia countermark as well, sometimes obscuring the star. The example shown here does have the countermark and part of the star is still visible, showing the type variation very clearly. This series shares the K control mark in the eagle's legs but, unlike most other series, the reverse on each denomination differs from all the others - eagles facing different directions, kerykeion through the eagle, two eagles (Sv 1377), open wings, closed wings, etc. While the control links these coins it is possible they comprise issues at slightly different times. The bare-legged eagles on all the types almost certainly place these prior to the reign of Ptolemy VI, though some references put the large coin (Sv 1375) under Ptolemy VI. This distinction has some implication for the dating of the countermarking (see the Coinex Hoard paper by C. Lorber and S. Huston, the conclusion of which is that the countermarking with cornucopiae preceded the reign of Ptolemy VI). Note that this series introduces for the first time an obverse design with Alexander portrayed wearing a lionskin headdress, not seen at all on earlier coinage types of the Ptolemaic kingdom. This unusual obverse design element is shown on only a few types during the early part of the 2nd C. BC. Shown in a separate row below are three coins that are obviously related (with star at the left of the open-wing eagle) but which are uncatalogued and do not have the K, rather with no control letter (one coin known) or a round symbol apparently an OMICRON with an inscribed LAMDA.
30mm - 20gm Sv1375 - K (star at left)	30mm - 20gm Sv1375 - K (star at left w/ cornucopia countermark)	25mm - 10gm Sv1376 - K	22mm - 7gm Sv1377 - K	18mm - 4gm Sv1378 - K	16mm - 3gm Sv1379 - K
30mm - 20gm Uncatalogued, cf. Sv1375v - no control (star at left)	30mm - 20gm Uncatalogued, cf. Sv1375v - OMICRON w/inscribed LAMDA (star at left)	30mm - 20gm Uncatalogued, cf. Sv1375v - OMICRON w/inscribed LAMDA (star at left, w/cornucopia countermark)

Ptolemy VI - Early Reign Alexandria Series with Kleopatra I This denomination series consists of three coins with the unusual obverse inscription of Kleopatra I (wife of Ptolemy V and mother of Ptolemy VI). We have only three sizes with leg monogram or left-field monogram of PI ALPHA. Having the obverse KLEOPATRAS incription may well indicate that she was the regent or co-ruler with the very young Ptolemy VI during the earliest part of his reign (ca. 180 - 176BC). The next series (see just below) appears to be largely congruent to these coins but with two more denominations and lacking the KLEOPATRAS inscription, thus attributable to the 'sole reign' of Ptolemy VI ca. 176-170BC. Note also the feathers on the eagles' legs proceeding down toward the eagles' feet. The fully-feathered eagle legs are likely a diagnostic distinguishing the coins of earlier rulers from those of Ptolemy VI. The wavy fully-feathered eagle legs are a prominently distinct feature of Ptolemy VI tetradrachms as well. Another interesting feature of this series is that we see two eagles on reverse of the largest denomination. Two-eagle reverse types are prominent in the largest coins of the later series of Ptolemy II and then vanished during the reign of Ptolemy III. Ptolemy IV or V reintroduced a two-eagle reverse large coin (Svoronos 1423, large horn variants) that Svoronos did not distinguish from other two-eagle reverse seen on later Ptolemy VI coins, but which is almost certainly unrelated and attributable to Ptolemy IV or V (the eagles' legs are bare on those coins) for certain sub-types (with odd Ammon horns). The meaning of the two eagles on a large denomination may be the same for these coins as for those of Ptolemy II and Ptolemy IV/V - a marker of denomination. Some authors have associated two eagles with 'joint rule' but there seems to be no solid basis for this association, esp. since the two eagle reverses are not uniform across a whole series of denominations until later (see below). The largest denomination here also has a cornucopia at the left of the two eagles, typical of Alexandria issues, telling us that the PI-A monogram is not interpreted as a mintmark though it does appear to the left of the eagle on the two smallest issues. Compare these coins with the series shown immediately below.
30mm - 24gm Sv1380 - PI-A	22mm - 8gm Sv1381 - PI-A	18mm - 4gm Sv1382 - PI-A

Ptolemy VI - Early Sole Reign Alexandria Series This denomination series has some types similar to those of the previous series, but without the obverse inscription seen above. We have now an expanded series of five sizes with leg monogram or left-field monogram of PI ALPHA, as above, but without the obverse inscription. Perhaps issued just shortly after the KLEOPATRAS obverse inscription series seen above. The largest has Zeus Ammon, then Isis, Alexander in Lionskin, Alexander in Elephantskin, and a small Isis. Only the largest, as before, has two eagles on the reverse. Like the KLEOPATRAS inscription series above, these coins have the PI-A monogram in the left reverse field except for the largest Zeus portrait coin which has the monogram in the eagle's legs. PI-A is a control symbol for these coins of Alexandria, not a mintmark. This series appears to be a continuation, with an expanded set of denominations, of the previous series (with KLEOPATRAS obverse inscription). The largest size and two smallest sizes in this series are congruent in design, monogram placement, and size/weight to the three coins of the KLEOPATRAS series above. The absence of the KLEOPATRAS inscription on these may indicate that the coins are to be considered the first issue of Ptolemy VI as 'sole ruler'.
30mm - 24gm Sv1383 - PI-A	28mm - 18gm Sv1384 - PI-A	25mm - 9gm Sv1385 - PI-A	22mm - 6gm Sv1386 - PI-A	17mm - 4gm Sv1387 - PI-A

Ptolemy VI/VIII - Joint Reign Double-Eagle Series This denomination series consists of six coins with double eagle reverse and no control letters in the eagle's legs. The time period of joint rule followed the depature of Antiochos IV, after 169BC until the re-assumption of sole rule by Ptolemy VI in 163BC and later a separate rule by Ptolemy VIII in 145BC. The largest size shown here also has an unusual style on some variants with the large Ammon horns protruding from the top of the head or the forehead. It is quite likely, though those variants have been attributed to Ptolemy VI because of the two eagle-reverse, that it is actually a coin issued by Ptolemy IV or V as we do not see the fully-feathered eagle legs and the Ammon horn is displayed either protruding directly from the forehead or from the top of the head (both varieties shown here). A third variant is actually the largest coin of this series, one which does resemble the traditional Ammon style with normal horn size and position, and with cornucopia on the reverse. We ought treat that third variant as the Svoronos 1423 for this series while the other variants need to be re-catalogued and placed earlier (see above). Once we place the correct Svoronos 1423 variant at the head of this series, the additional coins (Svoronos 1424, 1425, etc.) are nicely congruent across the denomination range and may be the only full series we see for which all the reverses share the two-eagle design, with cornucopia (one or two, the meaning of which is a mystery) at left. It is the one series for which a claim of 'joint rule' might be plausible on the basis that all denominations share the two eagles, lack control symbols, and display cornucopiaea on the reverse left field.
36mm - 40gm Sv1423v3 - nm - Normal Ammon Horn	34mm - 32gm Sv1424 - nm	28mm - 24gm Sv1425 - nm	22mm - 8gm Sv1426 - nm	16mm - 6gm Sv1427 - nm	15mm - 3gm Sv1428 - nm

Ptolemy VI - Corinthian Helmet Series This denomination series consists of 2 large to medium coins with an identical appearance, differing only in size/weight. We see the familiar Zeus Ammon obverse with a closed-wing eagle reverse and a crested (corinthian?) helmet at left, the crest depicted in as an elaborate long hanging plume. The meaning of the helmet symbol, possibly a mint mark, is unknown. Similar helmets are seen on some much earlier and smaller coins of Ptolemy I, see above. Both sizes are relatively scarce. Attribution to Ptolemy VI or VIII is also subject to additional consideration especially with respect to the reverse style. An earlier attribution is entirely possible. The absence of fully-feathered eagle legs is highly suggestive of an attribution to Ptolemy IV or V.

40mm - 48gm Sv1634

30mm - 24gm Sv1635

Ptolemy VI - Sole Reign Lotus Blossom Series This denomination series consists of seven coins with single eagle reverse and lotus blossom to the left of the eagle. Specimens are marked with EYL or no control letters in the eagle's legs. Two medium size types have a sceptre or kerykeion through the eagle. We adopt the attribution of Svoronos 1403 (with no leg controls) as Ptolemy VI due to the style of the eagle rendering and its resemblance to the others here with long tufted feathers all the way down the eagle's legs. Weiser had placed this large coin at Ptolemy III but the style of both the Zeus facial rendering and eagle feathering argue against that. We also remove Svoronos 1404 (also with no leg controls) to an earlier series (see above) that includes Svoronos 841, 842, and 843 based on the same stylistic considerations. A couple of the smaller EYL types may display a Seleukid anchor countermark and the apparent defacement of the name Ptolemaioy from the reverse. Others show only the defacement of the inscription with no countermark, and yet others appear to be the original intact design. It is thought the defaced and/or countermarked examples are coins either captured by Antiochos IV during his invasion or made from captured dies and countermarked for circulation in the Seleukid empire. We show here some examples (e.g. Sv1401) with both the full inscription and obliterated PTOLEMAI version. That invasion occurred during the middle reign of Ptolemy VI, who was for a time a captive of Antiochos IV. Upon Antiochos IV departure it is thought he created his 'Egyptianized' series of bronzes that closely mirror these in sizes and style (see further below), but which were issued at Antioch as a celebration of his, at least temporary (until expelled by Roman allies of the Ptolemies) victory over Egypt. There is one additional enigmatic coin, Svoronos 1399, of comparable style but which lacks both the lotus blossom and control marks. We do not place it here because it has no lotus flower symbol.
45mm - 96gm Sv1395 - EYL Sv1403 - nm	36mm - 36gm Sv1405 - nm	30mm - 24gm Sv1396 - EYL Sv1406 - nm	24mm - 16gm Sv1397 - EYL Sv1398 - EYL + cmk Some with PTOLEMAI obliterated as shown here.	22mm - 12gm Sv1401 - EYL (some w/cmk)	22mm - 12gm Sv1401 - EYL (some w/cmk, PTOLEMAI obliterated)	20mm - 8gm Sv1402 - EYL Sv1407 - nm

Antiochos IV - Post-Conquest Egyptianized Series of Antioch This denomination series consists of five coins with single eagle reverse and no control letters in the eagle's legs, with the eagle facing right and the reignal name of Antiochos Theos Epiphanes. The time period follows the departure from Egypt by Antiochos IV in about 168BC following his brief conquest and reign with Ptolemy VI at Memphis. These coins are listed in Svoronos but they are Seleukid coins issued by Antiochos IV at Antioch following the failure to consolidate the Egyptian conquest. The Zeus figure on the largest two coins is not the usual Egyptian Zeus Ammon, rather Zeus Serapis with a laurel wreath and Isis headdress ornament at the top of the head. Two coins show the typical Egyptian style Isis head and the smallest coin has the more traditionally Seleukid idealized radiate portrait of Antiochos IV seen on many other bronze issues of Antiochos IV. The other unusual feature on all of these is that the single closed-wing standing eagle faces right rather than the almost ubiquitously left-facing corresponding type on actual Ptolemaic bronzes.
44mm - 72gm Sv1415 - nm	36mm - 36gm Sv1416 - nm	28mm - 18gm Sv1417 - nm	24mm - 12gm Not catalogued in Svoronos - SNG Spaer 982-3 - nm	22mm - 8gm Sv1418 - nm

Visit the PtolemAE Project Home Page

Your educational and informational center for Ptolemaic Bronze Coins.

Thank you for visiting the Ancient Collection Ptolemaic Kingdom Denomination Series Page.