📝 Item Description
Ancient Greek Bronze Half-Unit (AE15)
Kingdom of Macedon – Struck under Alexander III "The Great"
Date: Circa 336–323 BC (Lifetime issue or immediate posthumous era, c. 325–310 BC)
Up for auction is a historically significant bronze fraction struck during the golden age of the Macedonian Empire. This highly collectible military-issue type depicts the quintessential symbols of Alexander’s unstoppable armies: the iconic Macedonian shield and combat helmet.
Coin Specifications:
- Weight: 3.12 grams (Excellent, robust weight for this fractional denomination)
- Diameter: 14.7 mm – 15.5 mm (Standard AE15 module)
- Material: Bronze
- Reference: Similar to Price 14, Liampi Schild M series
Design Details:
- Obverse (Front): Circular Macedonian Shield featuring a stylized central boss decoration flanked by geometric borders.
- Reverse (Back): Crested Macedonian Helmet facing right. Features the clear Greek letters B – A (Basileos Alexandrou / "Of King Alexander") split across the fields, alongside an ancient mint control monogram.
Historical Significance:
Struck either during Alexander the Great's world-altering military campaigns or by his successor generals (the Diadochi) shortly after his sudden death in 323 BC. These small, rugged bronze units were minted to circulate as standard daily currency among the soldiers and markets of the expanding empire.
Please view the high-resolution photos provided to judge the patina, surface condition, and fine detailing for yourself.
📊 Value Breakdown by Condition (Google AI search)
Like all ancient coins, value depends entirely on the clarity of the design elements, the state of the patina, and overall preservation:
- Poor / Budget ($15 – $35): Heavy wear or corrosion. Details are faint, and the central symbols (like the shield boss emblem or the letters B–A representing Basileus Alexandrou) are barely visible.
- Fine to Very Fine ($35 – $75): The distinct shape of the Macedonian crest, the details of the shield, and the mintmarks are identifiable. This is the most common range for retail collectors buying from platforms like VCoins or certified sellers on eBay.
- Choice Extremely Fine ($75 – $150+): Exceptional centering, no significant pitting, and a beautiful green or dark brown patina. Crisp details remain on the plumed helmet and the shield's outer design.
- NGC Certified ($100 – $250): If authenticated, graded, and encapsulated by a third-party service like the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), prices carry a premium due to guaranteed authenticity.
Shipping
- Shipped securely in a protective flip with tracking.
- Combined shipping available for multiple purchases.
I will be moving to Greece in a few years; I cannot take my ancient coin collection with me. So, I will be selling many ancient coins over the next few years. I have been a huge collector since the early 90s.
I am no numismatic, I am a collector, I do not grade anything. "What you see is what you are bidding on". Everything is true and authentic to the best of my knowledge. If you are not happy, money back guarantee and free shipping as long as all items return in same condition shipped.
All coins shipped in vinyl (PVC free) 2x2 protective holders or 2x2 cardboard flip. I will add new items every Thursday.
Wishing you all the very best, John
Thank you for viewing, and happy bidding!