ALEXANDER III THE GREAT (336-323 BC)

KINGS OF MACEDON 

Alexander III of Macedon

(ancient Greek: Ἀλέξανδρος ὁ Τρίτος ὁ Μακεδών), also known as Alexander the Great (Ἀλέξανδρος ὁ Μέγας) and the Invincible (ἀνίκητος), was born on July 19–20, 356 BCE in Pella and died on June 10, 323 BCE in Babylon. He was the king of Macedon from the Argead dynasty and is widely recognized as a brilliant strategist and one of history’s greatest conquerors. His reign marks the transition between the Classical period and the Hellenistic era.

A Brief History of Amphipolis

Amphipolis, situated on the Strymon River in Thrace, was one of the most significant cities in ancient Macedonia. It was founded in 437 BCE by the Athenians on the ruins of the Thracian settlement of Ennea Hodoi ("Nine Roads"). Due to its strategic location and natural resources, the city quickly gained importance. Amphipolis lay on a critical trade route connecting the Aegean Sea with Macedonia and Thrace, making it a central hub for commerce and military operations.

Its proximity to the gold-rich Pangaion Hills and abundant forests provided access to gold, silver, and timber—key resources for building fleets and funding military campaigns. These natural riches motivated Philip II, Alexander’s father, to annex Amphipolis to Macedonia around 357 BCE, establishing it as one of the kingdom’s most vital bases.

Amphipolis and Alexander the Great

Amphipolis played a significant role in Alexander’s early life and reign. At the age of just 16, Alexander commanded the Macedonian army in battles against the Thracians near Amphipolis. These conflicts were part of a broader strategy to secure Macedonia’s northern borders and protect access to the region’s natural resources. During these campaigns, Alexander demonstrated remarkable courage and strategic acumen, earning recognition from Macedonian commanders and his father.

Later, as king, Alexander made Amphipolis a key logistical base and naval port for his army. In 334 BCE, he departed from Amphipolis on his legendary campaign against Persia. The city’s port was crucial for constructing and supplying the fleet that supported his military operations in Asia Minor.

Coins of Amphipolis During Alexander’s Reign

Amphipolis was one of the principal minting centers during Alexander’s rule, producing coins of exceptional artistic and propagandistic value. The obverse of these coins featured the head of Heracles wearing a lion skin, symbolizing Alexander’s bravery and divine heritage. The reverse depicted Zeus seated on a throne, holding a scepter and an eagle, emphasizing the king’s royal and divine authority. The inscription "ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ" ("of Alexander") affirmed his legitimacy and rule.

These coins, minted in Amphipolis using local silver and gold deposits, were instrumental in the empire’s development. They became a universal currency that facilitated trade and financed military campaigns in conquered territories. The wealth of the region, particularly the gold and silver from the Pangaion Hills, enabled the production of large quantities of high-quality coins, which gained widespread recognition across the Mediterranean and the East.

Natural Resources of Amphipolis

The wealth of Amphipolis came from its abundant natural resources, including the gold and silver deposits in the nearby Pangaion Hills and vast forests that provided timber for shipbuilding. These resources were essential for Macedonian military and economic strength, playing a pivotal role in the expansion of Philip II’s and Alexander’s empire.

Interesting Facts About Amphipolis

1. The Lion of Amphipolis: The monumental Lion of Amphipolis, likely erected in honor of one of Alexander’s generals or as a victory monument, symbolizes the strength and power of the Macedonian army. It remains one of the city’s most iconic symbols.
2. The Kasta Tomb: Discovered in 2012, the Kasta Tomb in Amphipolis dates to the post-Alexandrian period. Theories suggest it might belong to Hephaestion, Alexander’s closest companion and general, or another significant figure from his circle.
3. Strategic Importance: Amphipolis continued to be a vital military and economic center even after Alexander’s death. During the Wars of the Diadochi, the city became a contested site for control over the remnants of Alexander’s empire.

Antipater and His Relationship with Alexander the Great

Antipater was one of Philip II’s most trusted generals and later a key advisor and administrator for Alexander the Great. Known for his loyalty and administrative skills, Antipater played a crucial role in maintaining stability in Macedon during Alexander’s campaigns.

In 334 BCE, when Alexander embarked on his conquest of Persia, Antipater was appointed regent of Macedon. His primary tasks were to defend the kingdom’s borders from northern barbarian tribes and to suppress potential rebellions in Greece. Antipater’s leadership was particularly evident during the Lamian War (323–322 BCE), when he successfully defeated the Greek revolt and reinforced Macedonian dominance over Greece.

Despite his loyalty, the relationship between Antipater and Alexander was not without tension. Alexander allegedly distrusted Antipater’s growing power and sent Craterus to Macedonia to curb his authority. Following Alexander’s death in 323 BCE, Antipater assumed the role of regent of the empire, striving to maintain its unity amidst the turmoil of the Wars of the Diadochi.

Antipater was the father of Cassander.

Denomination: Tetradrachm, Ag

Obverse: Head of Herakles to right, wearing lion skin headdress

Reverse: Zeus Aëtophoros seated left on low throne, holding long scepter in his left hand and eagle standing right with closed wings in his right; to left, janiform head wearing polos, AΛEΞANΔPOY

Mint: Amphipolis (struck under Antipater), 332-326 B.C.

Weight: 16,45 g

Diameter: 26mm

Provenance: Rodpol

Riferimento : 02.1 Price 6

Collezione : ALEXANDER THE GREAT and HIS SUCCESSORS