Greek Coin Tetradrachm

Inv. No.: c026
Provenance: Philip V, King of Macedonia
Date: 221-179 B.C.
Weight: 16.98g
 
Obv.: Macedonian shield; in the centre, the head of Philip as the new Perseus, wearing winged helmet terminating in forepart of a griffin, sickle behind.

Rev.: Club, monogram above, two monograms below, all within oak wreath.

The coin reflects Philip Roman connections only in a minor detail: the winged helmet, crowned with the forepart of a griffin, resembles that depicted on the head of Roma on Roman denarii. As for the portrait on the shield, Philip son was called Perseus. The club on the reverse is that of Hercules. The oak wreath symbolises Zeus.

The griffin, a hybrid animal, unites the terrestrial strength of the lion with the celestial energies of the eagle. This appears to be the image of himself that Philip wished to project on his coins.

Presented by Mrs Betty Fletcher.

Comparanda:
Price 74.