PTOLEMAIC EGYPT. Ptolemy I Soter, 323-283 B.C. AR Tetradrachm (15.59 gms), Alexandreia Mint, ca. 306-300 B.C. NGC Ch EF, Strike: 5/5 Surface: 3/5. Countermark, Graffito, Edge Cut. Svor-168; CPE-63; SNG Cop-19. In the name of Alexander III of Macedon. Obverse: Diademed head of the deified Alexander right, wearing elephant skin and with aegis around neck; Reverse: Athena advancing right, brandishing spear and wearing shield on extended left arm; to right, helmet, monogram, and eagle standing right on thunderbolt. Well centered on an attractively toned flan of good metal, this lightly handled example exhibits a minor countermark on the cheek of Alexander and some very subtle graffito in the reverse field that blends magnificently with the acquired color. From the Mark and Lottie Salton Collection.
