Unknown Maker, Greek

This coin exemplifies the great skill of early die-engravers. The delicate carving of the wood planks of the ship and the contours of Poseidon's face show a precise attention to detail. The inscription on the hull of Apollo's ship means "king Antigonus," and refers to Antigonus Doson, the ex-general of Alexander who ordered the minting. This bold statement is tempered by pious representations of two gods in the coin's imagery: Poseidon, the god of the sea, and Apollo, the god of the sun. The coin commemorates the victory of the battle of Andros, one of the many victories achieved by this respected ruler.