Seleukid Kingdom Demetrios II Nikator Sterling Silver Ancient Coin 14K Pendant

Housed in a custom-made 14k gold setting, the pendant features a sterling silver Tetradrachm coin that dates to 129-125 B.C. The front of the coin features the profile of Ancient Greek ruler Demetrios II Nikator, who ruled the Seleucid Empire from 145 - 138 B.C., and then again from 129 - 125 B.C. His two reigns were separated by years of captivity in Parthia, thus, there are two different coins that contain his profile. The earliest coin features the image of a younger man with a boyish face and short hair; the second coin (as seen in this pendant) bears the image of an older man with a Parthinian hairstyle and beard, as well as a more weathered face, evidence of Demetrios’ years of imprisonment. Demetrios continued to bravely fight for what remained of the Seleucid Kingdom—but was betrayed by his wife Cleopatra Thea and captured near Tyre. The story of Demetrios is so intriguing that an opera libretto was written about him in 1731 by Pietro Metastasio. 

The back of the coin features the image of Zeus bearing Nike, surrounded by a Greek inscription that translates to “Of God King Demetrios the Victor”. The coin is held in a 14k gold setting that was made specially for this coin. The frame is ever-so-slightly not perfectly round, mirroring the coins imperfect shape, and holds the coin with four prongs. The frame is topped by a trefoil-shaped element that also functions as a bail. 

The coin’s imagery is striking and with crisp and clear details, despite the coin’s more than 2,000 year old age. This is a special pendant that allows you to wear a piece of ancient history. 

The pendant measures 1 3/8” x 1 5/8” and weighs 21.39 grams. It is pictured here on a thicker chain; the chain is not included but we can help you select a chain that would pair well with the piece. The coin comes with the providence of being acquired through Heritage Auctions in Europe, who has a stringent authentication process.