Seleukid Kingdom, Alexander II Zabinas, Antioch Mint, AE 128 BC

Seleukid Kingdom, Alexander II Zabinas, 128-122 BC, AE (bronze,7.06g,21mm), Antioch Mint, 184 = 128 BC

Obv: Diademed head of Alexander II right

Rev: ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ, Dionysos standing left, holding thyrsos and kantharos; to outer left, IΣI above ivy leaf; ΔΠP (date) to inner left

Ref: SC 2229.1e; SNG Spaer 2376-7

Rarity/Choice: Common, aVF (nice earthen highlights on dark patina)

Note: Alexander II Zabinas was a pretender to the throne who claimed descent from Alexander the Great, hence his epithet "Zabinas," meaning "son of Zeus." Alexander II's reign was marked by internal strife and conflict as he vied for control of the Seleucid Empire against other claimants to the throne. Despite his short rule, Alexander II left an impact on the political landscape of the Hellenistic world during a period of decline for the Seleucid Empire.