This extraordinarily rare Gold Pentadrachm was issued by Ptolemy I Soter, founder of the Ptolemaic Dynasty in Egypt and former Macedonian general under Alexander the Great. Struck around 305 BC in Alexandria, this coin represents one of the largest and most prestigious denominations of its era.
Coin Highlights:
Weight: 17.79 g
Grade: NGC CHXF*, Strike 5/5, Surface Fine Style
Design:
Obverse: Diademed head of Ptolemy facing right with aegis draped around neck
Reverse: Eagle with closed wings standing on a thunderbolt; inscription ITTOVEMAIOY BA£IVEQ£ (“Coins of Ptolemy the King”)
Rarity: One of the rarest gold denominations to survive from ancient Egypt; Pentadrachms were equal to 5 Phoenician-Ptolemaic Drachms or 60 Silver Drachms
Special Designations: Fine Style for artistic mastery, Star for above-average originality and eye appeal
Historical Significance:
After Alexander’s death, Ptolemy became Satrap of Egypt and later declared himself King in 305 BC. This coin was struck on a large, well-centered flan, exemplifying both technical skill and artistic elegance. Ancient Egyptian records indicate that Ptolemy II recalled earlier gold Pentadrachms, making surviving examples from Ptolemy I exceedingly rare.
This coin was recently acquired by a discerning collector seeking museum-quality examples.