Obolos 14

PTOLEMAIC KINGS OF EGYPT. Ptolemy II Philadelphos, with Arsinöe II, Ptolemy I, and Berenike I, 285-246 BC. Mnaeion or Octadrachm (Gold, 27 mm, 27.68 g, 12 h), Alexandria, after 272 BC. ΑΔΕΛΦΩΝ Diademed jugate busts of Ptolemy II, draped, and Arsinoe II, veiled, to right; behind, Gallic shield. Rev. ΘΕΩΝ Diademed jugate busts of Ptolemy I, draped, and Berenike I, veiled, to right. Lorber 313. Olivier & Lorber 125 (A14/R52 this coin). SNG Copenhagen 132. Svoronos 603 pl. XIV 15-17. A bold and attractive example with impressive portraits. Some marks and minor scratches, otherwise, very fine.

Ex Stack's Bowers and Ponterio, 8 January 2013, 304.

The Ptolemies were famous for the vast amount of gold coins they issued during the first century or so of their rule. These coins were used for trade, major payments and for prestige gifts to high ranking individuals; and, of course, they were also used for subsidies to allies. The gold came from mines to the south, in Nubia and elsewhere. This piece is part of a major issue showing the reigning monarch, his sister-wife, and their parents, the founders of the dynasty.