Demetrios II Nikator, 130-120 BC, Tetradrachm

Demetrios II Nikator, Tetradrachm, Silver (AR), Reign: 130-120 BC, Mint: Tyre. Weight: 13.13 g, Diameter: 30 mm.

This coin features the obverse with a diademed and draped bust of Demetrios facing right. The reverse depicts an eagle standing left on a prow directed left; a palm frond is positioned behind the eagle. To the left are APE and the monogram of Tyre above a club. The strike is well-executed with clear details on both the obverse and reverse surfaces. This coin corresponds to the standard reference number SC 2195.2b. Demetrios II Nikator was part of the Seleucid dynasty, ruling during a period of political fragmentation and rivalry. His reign was marked by attempts to regain control over various territories and deal with internal challenges. The minting of coins in Tyre, an important ancient Phoenician city, signifies the strategic economic and political interests in this key commercial hub. Tyre played a crucial role as a trade center, and coinage from this mint underscores the city's importance in the Hellenistic world under the reign of Demetrios II.