23/08/2026
Unveiled | Demetrius Coin
HISTORY
Antiochus VI Dionysos (148-142 B.C.), the 13th monarch of the Hellenistic Seleucid Kingdom. His radiate and diademed head complements the irregular, serrate edges of the coin.
The boy king Antiochus was nominated by the general Diodotus Tryphon, later heralded as ‘The Magnificent’, as heir to the throne, opposing Demetrius II. Throughout his short life, he remained a tool of the general, who declared himself king of the empire following Antiochus’s sudden death. Some ancient authors claim Diodotus Tryphon was responsible for the king’s demise, while others suggest he died during surgery.
Antiochus VI, or rather, Diodotus’ centre of power was initially at Chalcis by Bellus, but he soon took control of Apamea. Diodotus was eventually successful in forcing Demetrius II out of Antioch in 143 B.C., and Antiochus VI’s domain expanded further into Cilicia, Coele Syria and Phoenicia.
COIN DETAILS
Antiochus VI, AE, Circa 143-142 B.C., Bronze, 25mm.
Obverse: Radiate and diademed head of Antiochus VI Dionysos.
Reverse: An advancing elephant bearing a torch.
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