Condition gVG
 
COIN DATA SHEET: SELEUCID EMPIRE – ANTIOCHOS III MEGAS (223-187 BC)
 
Historical Context & The Era
The Seleucid Empire under Antiochos III Megas (223-187 BC) was at its territorial height, spanning from Asia Minor to parts of India. Antiochos III sought to restore Seleucid dominance, waging multiple campaigns, including the Fifth Syrian War (202-195 BC) against Ptolemaic Egypt and later facing off against Rome in the Roman-Seleucid War (192-188 BC). Despite his early military successes, his ultimate defeat by Rome at the Battle of Magnesia (190 BC) marked the beginning of Seleucid decline.
 
This coin, a Hemichalkon (1/96 of a Drachm), was commonly used for daily transactions and represents an important part of the economic life of the Seleucid people.
 
This Hemichalkon (1/96 of a Drachm), a small bronze coin, was a widely circulated issue during his reign, minted between 223-197 BC, likely to facilitate local trade and daily transactions.
 
Society & Economy During Antiochos III’s Reign:
 
The Seleucid Empire was a vast, multi-ethnic kingdom stretching from Asia Minor to India, encompassing Greek settlers, Persians, Mesopotamians, and local indigenous cultures.
Hellenistic Influence: Cities were designed in the Greek style, with agoras (marketplaces), gymnasiums, and temples dedicated to Greek gods.
Trade & Economy: The empire's economy relied on trade between Greece, India, and Egypt, with goods such as spices, silk, olive oil, and wine.
Military Society: The Seleucid army included Greek phalanx soldiers, war elephants, and Persian cavalry, funded by taxation and coinage.
Religious Diversity: The empire blended Greek deities (Apollo, Zeus, Athena) with local gods in places like Babylon and Persia.
 
What This Coin Could Buy:
As a small bronze coin, the Hemichalkon had limited purchasing power but was crucial for everyday transactions.
1 Hemichalkon (~2g bronze):
Could buy a small loaf of bread or some fruit at the market.
Might be used for entry into public baths or minor temple offerings.
Could be used to pay for a cup of watered wine at a tavern.
 
Larger Transactions:
A drachm (96 Hemichalka) could pay a soldier for a day's wages.
Silver tetradrachms were used for land purchases, larger trade transactions, and military salaries.
 
Historical Significance:
 
Military Expansion: Antiochos III’s reign was characterized by large-scale military campaigns in the East, Anatolia, and Greece.
Conflict with Rome: His ambition to restore the empire led to war with Rome, ending in Seleucid defeat and territorial losses.
Economic Role: Hemichalkon coins were likely used in everyday transactions, serving as small change for local trade and markets.
Cultural Legacy: The coins of Antiochos III continued the Hellenistic artistic tradition, merging Greek and Eastern influences.