A rare Holy Land double shekel from the Greek city of Sidon in Phoenicia, struck during the reign of King Ba‘Alshillem II (401–366 BC). This impressive 26 mm, 25.44 g silver coin is graded NGC VF, showcasing exceptional strike and complementary cabinet toning.
Ruler: Ba‘Alshillem II (401–366 BC)
Denomination: Silver Double Shekel
Grade: NGC VF, Strike 5/5, Surface 3/5
Dimensions: 26 mm, 25.44 g
NGC Ancients #: 2089210-070
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🏛 Obverse
War-galley traveling left, propelled by a row of oars
Shields along the bulwarks, standard at stern beneath
Two lines of zig-zag waves above
Phoenician letter “B”
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🏛 Reverse
King of Achaemenid Empire, raising right hand and holding animal-headed scepter
Driver in chariot drawn by horse left behind
King of Sidon, Ba‘Alshillem II, standing left in Egyptian dress, holding cultic scepter on foot
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📊 Historical Context
Sidon, located about 20 miles north of Tyre, was a major maritime and commercial center in Phoenicia
Renowned for purple dye production and glassmaking, including early glass-blowing techniques
This coin type is extremely rare in any grade, making it a coveted addition to Holy Land and ancient Greek coin collections