Kingdom of Macedon — AV Stater

Philip II | 359–336 BC Early Posthumous Issue | ex Leu 25 (1980), Lot 111 NGC Ch XF | Strike: 5/5 | Surface: 4/5 8.54 grams

Struck in the name of Philip II of Macedon, this exceptional gold stater represents the foundation upon which one of history’s greatest empires was built. Philip II transformed Macedon from a peripheral kingdom into a dominant military power, laying the groundwork for the conquests of his son, Alexander III the Great.

The obverse displays the serene yet commanding head of Apollo, god of light, music, and prophecy. Rendered in elegant classical style, Apollo’s youthful features and flowing hair exemplify the height of Greek artistry—refined, balanced, and timeless. The portrait radiates a calm authority, reflecting both divine favor and cultural sophistication.

On the reverse (not shown here but integral to the type), a victorious horseman rides forward—an enduring symbol of Philip’s dominance in cavalry warfare and his celebrated victories in the Olympic games. This imagery speaks directly to Macedon’s military strength and aristocratic ideals, where horsemanship was synonymous with power and prestige.

Graded NGC Choice XF with a full 5/5 strike, this example boasts outstanding sharpness and detail, particularly in the beautifully preserved portrait of Apollo. The surfaces, rated 4/5, exhibit rich, lustrous gold with minimal distractions, enhancing the coin’s already impressive visual appeal.

Weighing 8.54 grams, the gold stater of Philip II became one of the most influential coin types of the ancient world, widely imitated and circulated across vast regions. Its consistent weight and purity made it a trusted medium of exchange, cementing Macedon’s economic as well as military influence.

With its distinguished provenance from Leu Auction 25 (1980), this piece carries not only ancient history but also a legacy within the modern numismatic world. A superb Choice Extremely Fine example—powerful, elegant, and deeply rooted in the origins of empire.