Denomination: Bronze AE27

Period: Reign of the Ptolemaic dynasty

Date: 264-263BC

Origin: Possibly a Sicilian mint

Condition: An exceptional example, VF+/EF 

Obverse: Diademed head of Zeus-Ammon, right

Reverse: Eagle with open wings standing left on thunderbolt, Galatian shield decorated with thunderbolt to left, legend reads (in Greek) BAZILEOS PTOLEMAIOY

Size and Weight: 27mm, 17.85g

References: Svoronos 610

Features and Provenance: Ptolemy II ruled with his father for two years, then married the daughter of Lysimachos (Alexander the Great's friend and general), Arsinoe. He than married his own sister also called Arsinoe (must have been rather confusing). He is most renowned for carrying out his father's building wishes by completing the Lighthouse of Alexandria (also known as the Pharos) and the great library, two of  'Seven Wonders of the World.'

Condition Summary. This varies with the age of coin and there are grades between

Uncirculated (U). As struck with no traces of wear

Extremely Fine (EF). Very slight traces of wear, all parts of legend etc present, visible and clear

Very Fine (VF). Some signs of wear on the higher parts of the relief, all parts of legend etc present, but maybe worn

Fine (F). Wear on the coin and parts of legend etc may be missing or not visible