he Seleucid Empire, founded by Seleucus I Nicator after the death of Alexander the Great, was one of the largest Hellenistic states. It spanned from modern-day Turkey, Syria, Iran, and parts of Central Asia.
Coins like this were issued for:
Local trade and administration in Seleucid-controlled cities.
Religious or temple-related functions, particularly if the Rod of Asklepios is linked to a healing sanctuary.
Military pay for soldiers, as the Seleucid dynasty was frequently engaged in wars against Ptolemaic Egypt, Parthians, and internal rebellions.
The symbol of Asklepios’ staff suggests that this coin may have been minted in a city with a famous temple of Asklepios, such as Antioch, Laodicea, or Aegeae (Cilicia).
Coins of The Seleucid Kingdom, 312-63 BC
Opening Sale
Kingdom: Seleucid Empire
Ruler: Possibly Antiochus IV Epiphanes (175–164 BC), Antiochus VI Dionysus (145–142 BC), or another later Seleucid ruler
Mint: Antioch (Antakya, Turkey)
Condition: RARE EF- condition, conserving complete details on both sides and bold reliefs. dark patina, red earthen deposits,
Denomination: Tessera
Material: Bronze
Diameter & Weight: Estimated 17 mm, ~3.9g
Obverse Details
Design:
Portrait Style: Head of Asklepios facing right no legend
Seleucid kings often depicted themselves in a diadem (a ribbon-like crown).
Symbolism:
If it is a Seleucid king, it represents their divine authority and Hellenistic influence.
Reverse Details
Design: Serpent-entwined staff, likely the Rod of Asklepios (Staff of Asclepius)
The Rod of Asklepios is a key symbol of healing and medicine, associated with the Greek god Asklepios (Asclepius).
This suggests that the coin may have been issued in connection with a health-related sanctuary or religious temple dedicated to Asklepios or Apollo.
Possible Inscription:
Many Seleucid coins include Greek inscriptions, such as "ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΑΝΤΙΟΧΟΥ" (King Antiochus) or "ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΣΕΛΕΥΚΟΥ" (King Seleucus).
Due to wear, any inscription on this example is difficult to determine.
McAlee p. 85; SNG BnF 1856 (Pergamum)