RARE PTOLEMAIC KINGDOM OF EGYPT: PTOLEMY XII AULETES BRONZE AE 24
Scarce Late Hellenistic Issue Struck at Cyprus Mint – Two Eagles & Headdress of Isis
NUMISMATIC SPECIFICATIONS:
Ruler:
Ptolemy XII Auletes (First Reign, 80–58 BC)
Period / Date:** Late Hellenistic Period / Struck circa 80–58 BC
Mint: Cyprus Mint Workshops (Paphos)
Denomination: AE 24 (Bronze Obol / Half-Unit module)
Weight: 6.4 grams
Grade: Good (G) – Honest, heavy circulation with a deep, smooth historical patina. Core design geometries—including the profile of Zeus-Ammon, the two distinct eagles, and the sacred Egyptian field symbols—remain entirely identifiable.
CLASSIC HELLENISTIC & EGYPTIAN DESIGN:
Obverse: Diademed head of Zeus-Ammon facing right, showcasing the distinct outlines of his signature coiled ram's horn and classical hair boundaries.
**Reverse:** ΠΤΟΛΕΜΑΙΟΥ ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ (Of King Ptolemy). Two eagles with closed wings standing left on a thunderbolt, symbolizing the dual authority or co-regency traditions of the late Ptolemaic state.
* **Symbol / Control Mark:** In the left field (LF), a highly clear and well-defined **Headdress of Isis** (the traditional horns, solar disk, and feathers symbol) mounted on a small stand or monogram.
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Reference Catalogs:
Svoronos 1843 (listed under late anonymous/Cyprus types); Sear Greek Coins 7950; SNG Copenhagen 684.
WHY ADD THIS TO YOUR COLLECTION?
This historically significant bronze coin comes from the highly volatile first reign of Ptolemy XII, famously known as "Auletes" (the Flute Player). Ptolemy XII spent much of his reign struggling to maintain his grasp on the Egyptian throne amidst rising Roman influence, domestic revolts, and massive financial debts, eventually leading to his temporary exile in 58 BC.
This specific issue highlights the deep blending of Greek and traditional Egyptian religious iconography that characterized the final century of Hellenistic Egypt. While the obverse portrays the Greek supreme deity syncretized with the North African god Ammon, the reverse incorporates the sacred Headdress of Isis—a direct theological nod to the native Egyptian population to reinforce the divine legitimacy of the Ptolemaic dynasty.
The two-eagle reverse type is a highly collected, iconic variety among ancient numismatists. Backed by textbook-accurate attributes matching Svoronos 1843 and Sear 7950, this heavily circulated but completely honest survivor represents a tangible piece of history from the twilight decades of ancient Egypt's final dynasty.