About this artwork
Obverse: Heads of Ptolemy and Arsinoe II, right
Reverse: Head of Ptolemy I and Berenice I, right
Issued by Ptolemy II Philadelphos
The son and daughter of Ptolemy I inherited the crown of Egypt jointly. Following the customs of Egyptian pharaohs, Ptolemy II (r. 285–246 B.C.) and Arsinoe (r. 276–270 B.C.) married and ruled as both siblings and spouses. To celebrate their partnership they commissioned this remarkable coin. On his coins, Ptolemy I presented himself as a Greek, and specifically a Macedonian, king.
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On View
- Ancient and Byzantine Art, Gallery 151
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Culture
- Ancient Greek
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Title
- Tetradrachm (Coin) Portraying King Ptolemy II Philadelphos and Queen Arsinoe II
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Origin
- Egypt
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Date
- 285 BC–247 BC
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Medium
- Gold
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Inscriptions
- Obverse: A°E°ØΩN [of the siblings] Reverse: _ EΩN [of the gods]
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Dimensions
- Diam. 2.1 cm; 13.85 g
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Credit Line
- Gift of William F. Dunham
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Reference Number
- 1922.4256
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email .