Coin of Ptolemy II from a Ptolemaic hoard
Unknown Artist
285/82–246 B.C.
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
Diam: 4.2 cm (1 5/8 in.)
Classification
Coin, Ptolemy II
Period
Ptolemaic Period
Department
Egyptian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund and Edward S. Harkness Gift, 1922
Accession Number
22.3.512
Tags
Art Historical Context
This bronze coin, struck during the reign of Ptolemy II Philadelphus (285/82–246 B.C.), hails from a Ptolemaic hoard and exemplifies the fusion of Greek and Egyptian cultures in the Hellenistic world. Measuring just 4.2 cm in diameter it belongs to the Egyptian Art collection at the Metropolitan Museum of, acquired through the Rogers Fund and Edward. Harkness Gift in1922. Ptolemy II, son of Ptolemy I Soter—one of Alexander the Great's generals—ruled as pharaoh from Alexandria, blending Macedonian kingship with ancient Egyptian traditions to legitimize his dynasty. Featuring motifs of kings an...