Cleopatra III & Ptolemy IX Soter, 116-107 BC, Tetradrachm

Cleopatra III & Ptolemy IX Soter, Tetradrachm, AR, 116-107 BC, Minted in Alexandria. Weight: 13.36g, Diameter: 27mm. The obverse features a bust of Ptolemy, depicted diademed and draped, right-facing. The reverse shows the Greek inscriptions LI - ΠA beside an eagle standing on a thunderbolt, facing left, with its wings closed. The strike is well-centered with sharp details, typical of the period. This coin corresponds with Svoronos 1671. The tetradrachm of Cleopatra III and Ptolemy IX Soter holds considerable historical significance as it exemplifies the regency period in the Ptolemaic Dynasty, highlighting the joint reign of mother and son in ancient Egypt. The imagery on the coin, particularly Ptolemy's portrait, reflects the Hellenistic influence mingled with traditional Egyptian symbolism, illustrating the blend of Greek and Egyptian cultures during this era. The coin's production in Alexandria, a major center of commerce and culture, underscores its role in facilitating economic activities and political propaganda during the Ptolemaic rule.