Description
Early History
Pergamon’s early history is somewhat obscure. It started as a small settlement during ancient Greece’s archaic and classical periods. The region became more prominent after Alexander the Great’s death in 323 BCE, which led to the fragmentation of his empire among his generals, known as the Diadochi.
Rise to Power
The real rise of Pergamon began under the Attalid dynasty, founded by Philetaerus in 282 BCE. Philetaerus, originally a lieutenant of Lysimachus (one of Alexander’s successors), seized control of the fortress city of Pergamon and used its treasury to establish his rule. Although technically under the nominal authority of the Seleucid Empire, Philetaerus maintained considerable autonomy.
Expansion and Cultural Flourishing
Eumenes I was the ruler of Pergamon from 263 to 241 BC. He succeeded his uncle, Philetaerus, and established Pergamon as an independent and prosperous kingdom. Eumenes I is known for his victory over the Seleucid king Antiochus I in the Battle of Sardis, which secured Pergamon’s independence. His reign marked the beginning of the Attalid dynasty, and he was instrumental in the expansion and fortification of Pergamon. Eumenes I’s leadership laid the foundation for Pergamon’s cultural and economic growth, setting the stage for its prominence in the Hellenistic world.
Obverse: Laureate head of Philetairos right
Reverse: Athena enthroned left, holding shield in right hand, left elbow resting on sphinx seated right; spear diagonally in the background, ivy leaf to inner left, bow to outer right, monogram on the throne.
Diameter: 28 mm
Silver-plated, made in the USA.
Packaged in a coin collecting flip with the description of the coin printed on the flip insert.
Ariel (verified owner) –
Beautiful coin, a well thought propaganda piece of culturally domineering Attalids of Pergamon – the only royal Hellenistic family which had no civil war between siblings.