Alexander III Tetradrachm Value Guide

The Alexander III Tetradrachm is a cornerstone of Hellenistic numismatics, minted between 336-323 BCE to serve as the standard currency of a vast empire. These silver coins are highly collectible for their iconic imagery, featuring the hero Heracles and a seated Zeus, symbolizing Alexander the Great's divine authority.

What Is Alexander III Tetradrachm Worth?

The typical price range for Alexander III Tetradrachm is $500 - $600 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of specific mint marks or control symbols that identify the city of origin.
• The overall strike quality and centering of the Heracles and Zeus motifs.
• Surface preservation, including the level of wear on high points like Zeus's knee or Heracles's lion skin.
• Historical provenance and the presence of a professional grading certification.

How to Identify Alexander III Tetradrachm?

• Look for the reverse depiction of Zeus seated on a throne, holding a scepter and a perched eagle.
• Verify the obverse features the head of Heracles wearing the skin of the Nemean Lion.
• Check for the Greek inscription 'ALEXANDROU' typically located to the right of the seated Zeus.
• Examine the silver fabric and weight, as authentic tetradrachms generally weigh approximately 17 grams.

History of Alexander III Tetradrachm

Tetradrachms were prominent silver coins in ancient Greece, especially during the Hellenistic period. The coins depicting Alexander the Great, often with Heracles on one side and Zeus on the reverse, were widely circulated and served as a standard currency across his vast empire. These coins were minted in various cities for decades after Alexander's death, continuing to symbolize his enduring influence and power.