A spectacular Mint State silver tetradrachm from the Kingdom of Paeonia, issued by King Lycceius. This coin is graded NGC Mint State, Strike 5/5, Surface 4/5, tied for the Finest Known example.
Ruler: Lycceius, King of Paeonia (359–335 BC)
Denomination: Silver Tetradrachm
Obverse: Laureate head of Apollo right, short hair, inscription ΛΥΚΚ-EIOY
Reverse: Heracles crouching left, strangling the Nemean Lion arched right, bow and quiver to right
Weight & Diameter: Typical tetradrachm (~17 g, 28 mm)
Grade: NGC Mint State, Strike 5/5, Surface 4/5
---
🏛 Historical Context
Lycceius was the first Paeonian king to issue coins in his name
His coinage celebrated alliances with Philip II of Macedon, who claimed Hercules as a mythical ancestor
The reverse depicts one of the 12 Labours of Hercules, symbolizing strength, heroism, and dynastic legitimacy
This coin is bright, well-centered, and crisply struck, making it a numismatic masterpiece
---
📊 Rarity & Significance
Extremely rare – one of the finest known examples
Ideal for museum-quality displays, historical collections, or investment-grade numismatics
A key piece for collectors of Greek, Macedonian, and ancient mythological coinage