Seleukid Kingdom, Alexander I Balas, AE Antioch on the Orontes Mint

Seleukid Kingdom, Alexander I Balas, 152-145 BC, AE (bronze,5.97g,18mm), Antioch on the Orontes Mint

Obv: Head of Alexander I right, wearing lion skin headdress

Rev: ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΑΛΕΞ-ΑΝΔΡΟΥ; Apollo standing left testing arrow and resting hand on bow; star in left field

Ref: SC 1795.2; BMC 50

Rarity/Choice: Common, VF (beautiful dark brwon patina)

Note: Alexander I Balas was a ruler of the Seleucid Kingdom during the Hellenistic period. His reign, which lasted for approximately 5 years, was marked by political intrigue and conflict. Alexander I Balas claimed to be the son of Antiochus IV Epiphanes and ascended to the throne with the support of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt. However, his reign was challenged by other claimants to the throne, leading to internal strife and external conflicts with neighboring powers. Despite his efforts to consolidate power, Alexander I Balas faced opposition from rival factions within the Seleucid court and was eventually overthrown and killed in a coup led by Demetrius II Nicator.