Ancient Greek Alexander the Great Gold Stater Swivel Pendant

Object Description

An ancient Greek gold stater of Alexander the Great, presented in a gold and silver swivel pendant. The obverse of the coin depicts the helmeted head of the Greek goddess Athena. She wears the crested Corinthian helmet, typical of such gold coins. To the reverse is the winged figure of Nike, standing and looking to the left. The faint outlines of a wreath and a stylus can also be seen; typical attributes. The coin is surrounded by an 18k modern gold frame. This is connected to a swivel pendant, made of silver, via two large domed terminals. These hinges lead to a decorated ribbed silver handle which twists in the centre to hold a suspension loop.

The silver chain is included which is 30.5cm half-length, folded.

Date: Circa 336 – 300 BC

Object Literature

Alexander the Great was the legendary king of the Hellenistic Kingdom of Macedon. Born in 356 BC, he succeeded his father, Philip II, when he was just 20 years old. In just 10 years from his ascension to the throne, he built one of the largest empires of the Ancient World, as his kingdom stretched from the Adriatic Sea to the Indus River. He died in Babylon, which he intended to make the capital of his empire, in 323 BC, at just 33 years of age. After his untimely death, Alexander’s empire was divided amongst his successors, usually his generals or close family, who continued to mint Alexander coins. Gold staters, together with silver tratradrachms, were the principle denominations under Alexander the Great. However, unlike the tetradrachms, which depicted to the reverse and obverse two powerful male gods, Herakles and Zeus, the gold staters hold the depictions of the goddesses Athena and Nike.

Object Condition

Condition: Fine condition. Some of the coin detailing has faded. Modern frame and pendant. Suitable for modern wear. Gold frame is hallmarked.

Object Details