This is the largest silver coin minted by the Greeks. Due to their immense value, these remarkable pieces were ceremonial, distributed at court to commemorate a significant event — presumably the return of Ptolemy III to Egypt during the Third Syrian War in 245 BCE.

Berenice II was among the most formidable queens of the Ptolemaic dynasty, with a family history marked by intrigue and violence, even by Macedonian standards. Born in 267 BCE to Magas, king of Cyrenaica, and Apama, she endured a tumultuous early life. After her father’s death in 249 BCE, her mother arranged her marriage to Demetrius the Fair, who was invited to rule Cyrenaica. However, when Berenice discovered him in an affair with her mother, she killed him. Despite this scandal, her renowned beauty attracted Ptolemy III of Egypt, whom she married in 244/3 BCE. Together, they formed a powerful and influential couple, with Berenice effectively governing Egypt during her husband’s military campaigns.

During his absence in the Third Syrian War, she dedicated locks of her hair to the goddess Aphrodite at Zephyrium, praying for his safe return. When the hair mysteriously disappeared, the court astronomer Conon of Samos claimed it had been placed among the stars, immortalizing it as the constellation "Coma Berenices" (Berenice’s Hair). This story became a lasting legend known as "The Lock of Berenice."

Berenice II had six children, including Ptolemy IV, who succeeded her as king in 221 BCE. Initially co-ruler with her son, Berenice was ultimately murdered, likely at his instigation.

PTOLEMAIC KINGS of EGYPT. Berenike II, wife of Ptolemy III. Circa 244/3-221 BC. AR Pentakaidekadrachm (41.5mm, 51.75 g, 12h). Alexandreia mint(?). Struck under Ptolemy III, 245 BC. Veiled and draped bust right / BAΣIΛIΣΣHΣ BEPENIKHΣ, cornucopia, bound with fillet, between two laureate pileoi. CPE 734; Svoronos 988; D. Vagi, "The Ptolemaic Pentakaidekadrachm" in SAN XX.1 (1997), pp. 5-10; H.A. Hazard, Ptolemaic Coins (Toronto, 1995), c1052 (dodecadrachm); C.C. Lorber, Coins of the Ptolemaic Empire, Part I: Ptolemy I trough Ptolemy IV / vol. 1-Precious Metal (2018), 734 (this coin)


Ex. Sotheby's Zurich with NFA, October 27-28, 1993, lot 938; Ex. Harlan Berk BBS 113, March 14, 2000, lot 189; Ex Harlan Berk BBS 123, Oct 23, 2001 lot 199