Hello all, I could use some help with identification, value and authenticity of these two coins. They are my first ancients purchased, both were under $40. The pics aren't very good, so consider that as part of the challenge. I will list some of the information I was supplied, just need to know if they are indeed genuine, if not, back they go. Thanks in advance. ( I know the attributes are not listed properly. ) John. Coin #1--Silver Drachma, Viceroy Peithon from conquests of Alexander the Great, 325 - 300 BCE ? 2.2 grams, 20 mms. ? Coin #2-- Bronze King Phillip 2nd of Macedon 359 - 336 BC, father of Alexander the Great 6.01 grams, 16 mms.
The name that the seller has put on the first one is pure fantasy. There is no direct relationship with Alexander the Great. This is a crude late version of a drachm of Indo-Greek king Apollodotus II (ca 80-65 BC). These are abundantly available, also in much better style and condition. Value of this one is far below 40 dollars. The pictures of the second one are to much out of focus to give a good opinion. There are lots of fakes of these around however.
Thanks guys, I'll try to post better pics for the 2nd coin later, but I don't know what to think about the 1rst one now. At least it's authentic ?
These crude Apollodotus II types are generally considered posthumous. However, lots of these have surfaced in North-India over the last few years. Maybe that is because of a large hoard find. Some people have expressed their concerns about the authenticity of these though. So difficult to say for certain. This is a bit better style Apollodotus II drachm:
