Alexander I of Seleucia was nicknamed " Balas " meaning " Lord ". Considered as a usurper, he reigned over the Seleucid Empire circa 150 - 145 BC. I liked much the natural patina on the following coin with an awesome bust on obverse and Apollo standing on reverse. There seems to be a control mark in the left field of reverse which is described by some references as an unclear monogram. I hope that the condition of this bronze coin would make it clear. I think that it's either a palm tree or a star with a long queue. Here it is. SC 1795.
Very nice coin, I really like it. I have yet to get Alexander I Balas into my collection of Seleucid coins.
Yes it is a star. I like bronze coins of his, has quite a variety. He has at least 36 mints that made coinage for him, this one comes from Ascalon. Alexander I Mint: Ascalon Year 164, 149/148 BC Obvs: Head of Alexander right. Revs: BACIA on left, AΔEΞ on right, Asphlaston between. Mintmark ACK outter right, year ΔΞP outter left. 12x13mm, 1.31g Ref: SC 1849(1) Alexander I Mint: Antioch AE 19 149 to 147 BC Obvs: Head of Alexander right wearing crested Boetotian helmet. Revs: BAΣIΛEΩΣ AΛEΞANΔPOY, Nike left crowning royal name. 18x19mm, 6.28g Ref: SC 2 1790
Each country has its own numbers. 'Balas' was the first Syrian (Seleucid Empire) while 'Great' was the third Macedonian. Best example of this is James VI of Scotland who became James I of England. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_VI_and_I