1. Phoenician Sidonian Eagle (107 BC-AD): The Phoenician Sidonian eagle represents a significant cultural emblem of the ancient Sidon, a prominent Phoenician city. Featured on coins minted between 107 BC and the start of the AD era, the eagle on these coins testifies to the artistry and intricate detailing of Sidonian craftsmanship.
2. Ptolemaic Kingdom Eagle (305BC): The Ptolemaic kingdom, established in ancient Egypt after the death of Alexander the Great, was known for its prosperous reign. Its coins, bearing the mark of an eagle, were minted around 305BC. This eagle served as a powerful emblem, signifying strength, dominance, and the expansive nature of the Ptolemaic dynasty.
3. Seleucid Kingdom Eagle (200BC): Originating from the remnants of Alexander the Great’s empire, the Seleucid Kingdom spread across much of the Hellenistic eastern regions. Around 200BC, their coins featured an intricately designed eagle, symbolizing the kingdom’s grandeur, power, and its aspirations to soar high in the vast territories it covered.
4. Phoenician, Tyrian Eagle (126/5BC): Another noteworthy representation from the Phoenician realm is the Tyrian eagle, minted around 126/5BC. Tyre, an influential Phoenician city-state, showcased the eagle on its coins, reiterating its maritime dominance and commercial prowess in the ancient world.
5. Armenian, Artaxiad Eagle (2nd C BCE): Diverging slightly from the conventional coin, this piece is a silver medallion hailing from Sisian, Armenia. Dated back to the 2nd century BCE during the Artaxiad dynasty’s reign, the medallion’s detailed eagle, poised with grandeur, hints at the dynasty’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. This precious relic reflects the Artaxiad dynasty’s glory days and its lasting impact on Armenian history.
In conclusion, the eagles embossed on these ancient coins and medallions aren’t just ornamental designs. They stand as symbols of power, dominance, and the aspirations of the kingdoms and dynasties they represented. Each eagle tells a tale of its era, offering a glimpse into the past and the rich history of the ancient world.
Artatsolum
Image Source: Levan Tonaganyan
