Lysimachus Tetradrachm Coin Replica (305–281 BC)

This detailed replica represents a silver tetradrachm struck under King Lysimachus, one of Alexander the Great’s successors who ruled Thrace, Asia Minor, and Macedon from 305–281 BC.

Obverse: The coin features the deified portrait of Alexander the Great, shown with the horn of Ammon curling from his temple. This imagery symbolized Alexander’s divine connection to Zeus-Ammon, a powerful statement of legitimacy and godlike status that Lysimachus carried forward to strengthen his own reign.

Reverse: Depicts Athena Nikephoros (“Athena, Bringer of Victory”) seated on a throne, holding Nike (Victory) in her outstretched hand. She rests her arm on a shield adorned with a lion’s head, with a spear behind her, embodying wisdom, warfare, and triumph. The inscription reads ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΛΥΣΙΜΑΧΟΥ (Of King Lysimachus), affirming his authority.

Historical Context:
This coin was minted in Lampsacus, a strategic city on the Hellespont, during a turbulent era when Alexander’s generals divided his vast empire. Lysimachus used this powerful design to connect himself with Alexander’s divine heritage and to project strength, victory, and continuity of rule.

Specifications:

• Diameter: About 29 mm
• Material: Metal (replica)
• Note: This is a high-quality replica coin, not an original ancient artifact.