Alexander the Great Silver Drachm | Lampsakos Mint | Pegasos Control Symbol | 336–323 BC

This authentic silver drachm was struck in the name of Alexander III “the Great” at the ancient mint of Lampsakos in Asia Minor during the late 4th century BC. The obverse displays Herakles wearing the lion-skin headdress, symbolizing strength and divine lineage, while the reverse shows Zeus enthroned holding an eagle and scepter beside the inscription ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ.

Distinctive to this issue is the forepart of Pegasos appearing in the field beside Zeus, serving as a control symbol linking the coin to the Lampsakos mint. Coins of this type circulated widely across Alexander’s expanding empire and remain among the most recognizable and historically significant silver coinage of the ancient Greek world.

• Diameter: approx. 13–16 mm
• Weight: approx. 2.8–4.8 grams
• Fabric: cast-prepared bronze blank, struck in high relief typical of early Hellenistic civic bronzes

This coin dates to the reign of Alexander the Great (336–323 BC), one of antiquity’s most influential rulers whose campaigns reshaped the political and cultural map of the ancient Near East and Mediterranean world. During his lifetime and immediately afterward, vast quantities of silver drachms were struck to support trade, military payments, and administration across his empire.

The Lampsakos mint, located along the Hellespont in northwestern Asia Minor, played an important role in producing imperial coinage following Alexander’s conquests. Issues bearing Pegasos control symbols are identifiable varieties within the broader Alexander drachm series and are especially valued for their clear attribution to this historic minting center.

Silver (AR Drachm)
Approx. 4.29 g | Approx. 19 mm diameter

From a private Near Eastern collection, formed in the late 20th century.
Acquired through the Jerusalem antiquities market.
Now preserved in the Ancient Levant collection.