Rare Coin of Cleopatra VII

 

Rare Coin of Cleopatra VII: A Unique Blend of #Greek and #Egyptian Influence

This fascinating coin of Cleopatra VII, dating to around 32 BC, provides a rare glimpse into the enduring legacy of Egypt's last queen. Struck in Patras, Greece, the hemiobol coin is a perfect blend of Greek and Egyptian culture. On the obverse, the inscription "ΒΑΣΙΛΙΣΣΑ ΚΛΕΟΠΑΤΡΑ" ("Queen Cleopatra") clearly identifies the ruler, while the reverse features the Crown of Isis, a symbol deeply connected with both the goddess and Egyptian royalty. The inscription "ΑΓΙΑΣ ΛΥΣΩΝΟΣ ΠΑΤΡΕΩΝ" ("Agias, son of Lyson, of Patras") identifies the local magistrate, blending Greek and Egyptian influences in a single, striking artifact.

This coin is not only a tangible piece of history, but it also highlights the interconnectedness of Greek and Egyptian cultures during the late Hellenistic period, when Cleopatra's influence stretched across both civilizations.

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