Alexander III ‘the Great’ 310-301 BC Silver Drachm gVF

This silver drachm, measuring 18mm and weighing 4.16 grams, was struck at the Abydos mint between 310–301 BC during the posthumous issues of Alexander the Great.

The obverse features the youthful, beardless head of Heracles facing right, adorned with the lion skin headdress of the Nemean lion—an enduring symbol of strength, divine favor, and heroic virtue.

On the reverse, the inscription ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ (“of Alexander”) accompanies the iconic image of Zeus seated on a throne.Zeus is depicted holding a sceptre in his left hand, symbolizing divine authority, while extending his right to support an eagle, emblem of kingship and sky power.

Distinctive control symbols—a MY monogram in the left field and an ivy leaf beneath the throne—identify the minting authority and issue. This drachm embodies both the enduring legacy of Alexander and the continuation of his monetary standard across the Hellenistic world.

Obverse: Head of Herakles facing right, wearing lion skin headdress, paws tied before neck.

Reverse: Zeus seated on throne facing to the left

Alexander the Great was a legendary Greek king who conquered much of the known world in the 4th century BC. He is known for his military tactics and strategic brilliance, as well as his cultural and political achievements in spreading Greek culture throughout the lands he conquered.

Note: this coin has been cleaned which is why it has quite a bright shine to it.