Numismatic

Egypt, Alexandria BI Tetradrachm Ant. Pius 138-161 AD Ch VF NGC

---

During the Roman period, the bustling Egyptian city of Alexandria produced a distinctive regional coinage. Among these issues is the billon tetradrachm minted under the rule of Emperor Antoninus Pius, who reigned from 138 to 161 AD. This particular coin, weighing 13.00 grams with a silver content of approximately 0.4300 troy ounces, offers a tangible connection to the eastern Mediterranean during the height of the Roman Empire. The obverse of the coin displays a right-facing portrait of Antoninus Pius, adorned with a traditional laureate crown. This imperial depiction is paired with a reverse design featuring the Greek goddess Athena. She is depicted standing while holding an owl, her classic symbol of wisdom. Cataloged by numismatists as Emmett 1371, this ancient artifact has survived the centuries in Choice Very Fine condition, preserving the artistic style of provincial Roman Egypt.