Ancient Macedonian Empire

Conquering Minds

Alexander the Great didn’t just conquer territories. He conquered minds. Furthermore, he used gold to do it.

His armies stretched from Greece to the edge of India. But his influence traveled even farther, thanks to his coins.

These weren’t just currency—they were propaganda. Indeed, they spread his image, ideals, and imperial message everywhere they circulated. They became Alexander the Great's Legacy in Gold!

The Power of a Portrait

Early Life and the Division of the Empire

Philip II of Macedonia, the father of Alexander the Great, was one of the most influential figures in ancient history. His rise to power reshaped the region, and his leadership laid the foundation for a powerful Macedonian state. This blog will explore how he came to power, his key accomplishments, the challenges Macedonia faced during his reign, what eventually happened to him, and how he is remembered today.

How Philip II Came to Power

Born in 382 BC, Philip II was the youngest son of King Amyntas III. Political chaos shaped his early life as Macedonia faced external threats and internal instability. After the death of his brother, King

Coming to Power

Perseus of Macedon rose to power during a turbulent era and became the last king of Macedon. Born around 212 BC, he was the eldest son of Philip V. Macedon. Under Philip's rule, he faced continuous pressure and conflict from Rome, which sought to expand its influence in the region. Despite the challenges, Perseus was groomed for leadership from a young age, learning the arts of war and governance.

Philip V had initially favored Perseus's younger brother, Demetrius, due to his diplomatic ties with Rome. Demetrius was sent to Rome as a hostage in 197 BC and developed favorable relations with the Romans. This caused tension between the brothers, as Roman influence was increasingly viewed with suspicion by the Macedonian court. Perseus, wary of Rome’s intentions and protective of Macedonian sovereignty, saw his brother as both a political and personal

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

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

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

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