A beautiful new addition of mine; probably the best looking Macedonian Drachm in my collection, to date. I particularly (and with many of my coins) appreciate the light toning in the valleys. You'll notice a bronze hue with this particular piece. The photo was taken in direct sunlight at 13:00 in the afternoon. I typically don't get such results without an overcast, but in this case, was pleasantly surprised. The auction house described the critter in the left field as a mouse. I clearly see a rabbit, but maybe there's a big eared species in the Macedonian region I don't know about. What do you guys think, mouse or rabbit? In either event, it's a coin that Steve can appreciate. Antigonos I Monophthalmos. As Strategos of Asia, 320-306/5 BC, or king, 306/5-301 BC. AR Drachm (16.5mm, 4.18 g, 8h). In the name and types of Alexander III. Lampsakos mint. Struck circa 310-301 BC. Head of Herakles right, wearing lion skin / AΛEΞAN∆POY Zeus Aëtophoros seated left; mouse in left field, ME monogram below throne. Price 1423; ADM II Series XIV Post your rodents. -Mike
You are most certainly correct about this. Amazing and stunning coin. I see a rabbit; none of my coins have any rodents that I know about. Congratulations on this wonderful acquisition.
It looks rabbitish to me-- or maybe a jerboa? Monophthalmos was strategos of Asia, and there are several types of jerboas in Asia (and north Africa). long-eared jerboa: Edited to add that this coin was on my watch list. I'm sad that I forgot to bid but happy to see it here!
Funny ... I went immediately towards a chinchilla ... ... but I must admit that your jerboa is a dead-ringer!!
I'm going to have to look at other examples. See if we can classify this thing. Anyone know a biologist/zoologist? ha
