Struck in the final years of Alexander’s empire, this bronze half unit belongs to the moment when his authority still shaped the Mediterranean world, even as power began to pass into new hands. Issued on Cyprus under Nikokreon of Salamis, the coin reflects a transitional period, when Alexander’s imagery continued to circulate as a stabilizing force after his death.
The History
Alexander III died in 323 BC, but his image and authority did not vanish with him. Across the eastern Mediterranean, cities and regional rulers continued to strike coinage in his name, using familiar symbols to maintain continuity during a period of uncertainty. Cyprus, long a strategic crossroads between Greece, Anatolia, and the Near East, played an important role in this post-Alexandrine world.
This coin was struck at Salamis under Nikokreon, a local king and ally of Alexander who remained in power in the years immediately following his death. Bronze issues such as this one were intended for everyday transactions, circulating widely among soldiers, merchants, and local populations. Their imagery was bold and unmistakable, designed to convey protection, legitimacy, and order.
The gorgoneion, set within a Macedonian shield, draws on deep mythological roots. The image of Medusa was believed to ward off evil and protect the bearer, while the shield firmly associates the coin with Macedonian military power. On the reverse, the helmet reinforces this martial identity, while the caduceus hints at exchange, negotiation, and civic life continuing alongside warfare.
Coins like this moved through a world in transition, when Alexander’s empire fractured into competing kingdoms, yet his symbols remained a shared visual language of authority.
What’s Included
Authentic bronze coin of Alexander the Great, guaranteed genuine
Custom 14k gold pendant setting
Sterling silver chain (16", 18", 20", or 24")
Certificate of authenticity with historical notes
Luxury presentation box
Polishing cloth
Free insured U.S. shipping (2–3 day delivery)
International shipping available
7-day return and exchange policy
Coin Details
Issuer: Kings of Macedon, Alexander III “the Great”
Mint: Salamis, Cyprus
Date: c. 323–315 BC
Denomination: Æ Half Unit
Material: Bronze
Obverse: Gorgoneion centered within a Macedonian shield
Reverse: Macedonian helmet; caduceus and monogram flanking below
Ancient Macedonian Bronze of Alexander III (Gorgon)
$775.00
Need help?
If you have any questions, you are always welcome to contact us. We'll get back to you as soon as possible, within 24 hours on weekdays.
Shipping Information
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
Customer Support
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
FAQ’s
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
Contact Us
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
Testimonials
My four daughters absolutely LOVED them! Your work is excellent and the pendants look great- Thank you!
— Eva S.
Thank you for making this spectacular necklace! I provided the denarius of Julia Domna, and they did the rest. I was delighted with the results - and so (more importantly) was my girlfriend.
— Garrett Ryan from Toldinstone
Got the ring today! Love it!
— Margaret B.
The Athenian Owl pendants are awesome! We're saving the gift for a special occasion. My wife loved it, she got it and was all hushed quiet, that smile while opening and handling it for the first few minutes. It's special.
— Joe E.
OMG the coin. It’s sooo gorgeous. I love it so so so so much. Thank you for keeping me in mind and finding this piece of perfection for me.
— Cecilia A.
Curated Classics. History in Every Piece
FAQs
Are all coins authentic?
Yes! All coins are genuine, not replicas. Fakes are rare because good forgeries take too much effort for low-value coins, and bad ones are easy to spot.
Where are your coins bought?
Mostly from reputable ancient coin auctions in Europe and the USA, plus private collections.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we proudly ship worldwide. Shipping options and times vary by country - you’ll see available methods at checkout.
Can I send you my own coin to make a pendant?
Absolutely! We love turning personal coins into wearable pieces. Just email us at info@peregrinependants.com to discuss your custom order.
What if my pendant needs repair?
If your pendant ever needs repair or resizing, contact us - we’re happy to help keep your piece in top shape.
