Bring your auction to collectors worldwide!
Get listed nowBy subscribing, you are agreeing to the privacy policy. Unsubscribe anytime.
Barnebys HQ
Brahegatan 10
BOX 5038
114 37 Stockholm
All auctions / Ancient Art / Rare Macedonian Bronze “The Shield of Alexander's Brother” — Royal Coin Amulet
An intriguing ancient Greek bronze coin amulet attributed to King Philip III Arrhidaios, the half-brother and successor of Alexander the Great, featuring the powerful Macedonian shield and an unusual elephant design. The obverse presents a traditional Macedonian shield, its central boss decorated with the head of Herakles, the legendary Greek hero associated with extraordinary strength, courage and divine protection. The reverse is attributed to an elephant walking right — an especially evocative image recalling the exotic lands, military expeditions and extraordinary eastern conquests associated with Alexander the Great. Historical Significance — The Brother of Alexander the Great Philip III Arrhidaios was the son of King Philip II of Macedon and the half-brother of Alexander the Great. Following Alexander's death in Babylon in 323 BC, Philip III ascended the Macedonian throne during one of the most turbulent chapters of ancient history. His reign witnessed the struggle among Alexander's generals for control of the vast empire, marking the beginning of the Hellenistic successor kingdoms. Symbolism — The Shield, Herakles and the Elephant The Macedonian shield represents military courage, royal authority, protection and the formidable warrior tradition of ancient Macedonia. Herakles, celebrated for his legendary twelve labours, symbolises exceptional strength, endurance and triumph over adversity. The elephant evokes immense power, wisdom and the distant eastern territories encountered during Alexander's campaigns. Together, these images create a fascinating symbolic connection between royal Macedonian heritage and the extraordinary legacy of Alexander the Great. A Wearable Piece of Hellenistic History The bronze coin displays an irregular ancient-style flan, textured surfaces and attractive greenish-brown patination. Suspended from a silver-coloured ring and chain, it becomes a distinctive historical pendant, combining ancient royal imagery with the timeless symbolism of courage, strength and protection. An appealing collectible for enthusiasts of Alexander the Great, Macedonian history, ancient Greek coins and symbolic jewellery.
Estimate:£169.22
Sold for:-
View all items fromCatawikiorAncient Art
Hammer price:
-
Estimate:
£169.22
OCT 23 | 8:00 AM
OCT 27 | 4:00 PM
Bring your auction to collectors worldwide!
Get listed now£22,000
Est: £20,000
APULIAN RED-FIGURE BELL KRATER WITH KOMASTOS AND MAENAD - TL TESTED
06/21/2026
£2,600
Est: £2,000
£718.17
OCT 17 | 10:00 PM
