PTOLEMAIC KINGS OF EGYPT. Ptolemy IV Philopator, 225-205 BC. Tetradrachm (Silver, 27 mm, 14.12 g, 11 h), Alexandria, circa 219-217. Jugate draped busts to right of Serapis, laureate and with miniature atef crown above forehead, and Isis, crowned with grain and miniature horned disc above forehead.
Rev. ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΠΤΟΛΕΜΑΙΟΥ Eagle with closed wings standing left on thunderbolt, his head turned back to right, with filleted double cornucopiae at his shoulder; between eagle's legs, ΔΙ. Boston MFA 2284. CPE 892. Noeske 139. SNG Copenhagen 197-8. Svoronos 1123-4. Beautifully toned and of fine style. About extremely fine.
From the Basileiai Hellēnikai Collection of Exceptional Tetradrachms, ex Tradart, 18 November 1993, 159.
This tetradrachm featuring the busts of Serapis and Isis is a notable example of the Ptolemies' innovative approach to religious and political symbolism. Serapis was a syncretic deity created by Ptolemy I to unify Greek and Egyptian religious traditions, symbolizing the dynasty’s power and legitimacy over Egypt. His association with the Egyptian goddess Isis further enhanced the Ptolemies’ religious influence and appeal to both Greek and Egyptian subjects. This coin is exceptional because Ptolemaic silver and gold coins typically feature royal portraits, usually of Ptolemy I, the founder of the dynasty
