Ancient Macedonian Empire

  1. Philip II's Standardized Coinage System

    Philip II's Standardized Coinage System - Gold Stater

    In the early 4th century BC Philip II's standardized coinage system of Macedon was established throughout his kingdom. His coins quickly became one of the most coveted coins in the ancient world. One of Philip II's most notable achievements is his standardized coinage system. Additionally, he was also known as a skilled strategist and military leader. Furthermore, through a series of successful military campaigns, Philip II expanded Macedonian territory.

    The Philip II Gold Stater was a symbol of wealth and power. In short, it was a testament to the artistry and precision crafted by skilled Greek minters. The coin's weight and measurements ensured its value. Meanwhile, It made it useful for everyday purchases and large-scale military expenses.

    Portrait of Alexander himself

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  2. Thrace influenced by Greece?

    Thrace influenced by Greece?

    Was Thrace influenced by Greece & the Macedonian Empire? It is a fact, Thrace was conquered by Philip II, king of Macedonia. This occurred in the 4th century BC. Once Philip the II died Thrace became a part of the great kingdom of Alexander the Great. Following Alexander’s death, his empire was divided among his generals, who established independent kingdoms including Thrace.

     

    Lysimachus, who reigned from 323 to 281 BCE, was the general who succeeded Alexander as the ruler of Thrace. According to Herodotus, an ancient Greek historian, Thrace was highly influenced by Greece and the Macedonian Empire's culture. But, were they?

    Yes, Thracian coinage gave homage to the once great leader of the Macedonian Empire. The Thracians under the leadership of Lysimachus used Alexander's portrait on the front of their coins. However, on the back

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  3. Thrace influenced by Greece?

    Thrace influenced by Greece?

    Was Thrace influenced by Greece & the Macedonian Empire? It is a fact, Thrace was conquered by Philip II, king of Macedonia. This occurred in the 4th century BC. Once Philip the II died Thrace became a part of the great kingdom of Alexander the Great. Following Alexander’s death, his empire was divided among his generals, who established independent kingdoms including Thrace.

    Lysimachus, who reigned from 323 to 281 BCE, was the general who succeeded Alexander as the ruler of Thrace. According to Herodotus, an ancient Greek historian, Thrace was highly influenced by Greece and the Macedonian Empire's culture. But, were they?

    Yes, Thracian coinage gave homage to the once great leader of the Macedonian Empire. The Thracians under the leadership of Lysimachus used Alexander's portrait on the front of their coins. However, on the back "Lysimachus n

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  4. Alexander the Great Conquered Babylon

    Alexander the Great Conquered Babylon

    The Persian Achaemenid Empire ruled Babylon for about two hundred years. They were the first super power of the ancient world. Their vast empire reached from India down to Egypt and all the way up to the northern border of Greece. The Achaemenids were an unstoppable force until Alexander did the unthinkable. Alexander the Great conquered Babylon and defeated the Achaemenids in 331 BCE. Alexander's actions change the entire ancient world.

     

    Alexander learned to be a great leader and powerful imperialist from his father Philip II. He also learned to be a battle strategist. Moreover, he knew what the odds would be against an outmatched manpower. But, despite the odds Alexander relied on speed and distraction to achieve victory after victory. Subsequently, Alexander the Great

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  5. Philip III King of Macedon

    Philip III King of Macedon

    Philip III King of Macedon was the son of Philip II. Alexander the Great, also known as Alexander III, was also the son of Philip II. Philip III's actual name at birth was Arrhidaeus and his mother was Philinna of Larissa. Philip III didn't ascend to the Macedonian throne until after the death of Alexander III. Even though Philip III was older than Alexander he was overlooked because he was half-witted and an illegitimate son. Philip III ended up merely serving as a figurehead. He was only placed king as a pawn and out of necessity. It was Alexander III who claimed the throne right after his father’s bodyguard assassinated him. In fact, Alexander killed all his rivals before they could challenge him. However, he took Arrhidaeus under his wing because he was very fond of him. Alexander even brought his older brother on campaigns in order to protect his life.

    The Death of Alexander the Great

    When Alexander the Great died on June 10 323 BC a crisis ensued. Who would be Macedonia’s new king? Philip Arrhidaeus had to become the candidate even though he was mentally challenged. Alexander III's wife Roxana was pregnant and was waiting to give birth to their son.  He was to become the eventual heir to the throne and was to be named Alexander IV. It was decided that Philip III would reign as the appointed regent. He would be Philip III of Macedon in name only until the new Alexander IV would become old enough to rule. Philip III King of Macedon did not have a long lasting reign. Only 6 years after becoming King he was murdered by Alexander III's mother, Olympias. She put to death Philip Arrhidaeus and his wife Cassander due to her using her husband to advance her own cause. Cassander’s brother and a hundred of his partisans who were conspiring with Cassander were also killed. This cleared the path for Alexander IV to become Macedonia’s rightful new king.

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  6. Macedonian Empire Gold Stater

    Macedonian Empire Gold Stater

    Various regions of ancient Greece utilized Staters as coinage. Importantly, in the beginning most of them were made of silver. However, it was ancient Macedonian Empire that first started using Gold Staters. The best known ancient Macedonian Empire Gold Stater was the one from King Philip II of Macedon—340 BC.

    It is hard to believe that these coins were struck by hand. Moreover, how could such a beautiful coin be created over 2,400 years ago? Each coin was a hand made example of ancient art. It is no wonder that some of these coins are still considered the most beautiful coins ever made. They were minted in Pella, Macedonia, most importantly known as the birthplace of both King Philip II and his son Alexander the Great.

    Philip will always be remembered in history as a brilliant military leader. His victories actually help to shape G

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  7. Alexander the Great's Influence

    Alexander the Great's Influence

    Alexander the Great's Influence on the ancient world stretched across a vast area. His influence extended from Greece and Asia Minor, to Persia, Egypt, and all the way to the border of India. Alexander was known as one of the most successful military commanders of the ancient world.

     

    It is amazing that Alexander had accomplished so much success at such a young age. At the age of 16, Alexander led his first troops into combat. Before his death at the age of 32, he had forged a great empire.

     

    Alexander's reign lasted from 336 BC to 323 BC. His connection and influence over the ancient world would last for years and years to come. Subsequently, Alexander's generals continued his legacy.

     

    Coinage Influenced by Alexander

     

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