Tetradrachm of Seleucus I

Unknown

ca. 298–281 BC · Silver · Greek and Roman Art

Early Seleucid coinage carried visual messages intended to support the primacy and power of the Seleucid dynasty and the specific mythology of the reigning king. On this silver tetradrachm, the head of Zeus stands in for a portrait of Seleucus I, the image of Nike symbolizes his victories, and elephants represent his military might. The anchor in the upper right field was also used by Seleucus I and his successors, but its meaning is unclear.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 298–281 BC

Medium

Silver

Culture

Greek, Seleucid

Department

Greek and Roman Art

Credit line

Bequest of Nanette B. Kelekian, 2020