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Lot # 167
Greek Asia. Cilicia, Tarsos. Balakros, Satrap of Cilicia (c.333-323 BC). AR Stater. Obv. Baaltars seated left, holding lotus-tipped sceptre; ear of grain and bunch of grapes on left, monogram below throne, B and leaf on right,. Rev. Draped bust of Athena three-quarters facing left, wearing triple-crested helmet; crested helmet to left. BMC Lycaonia pg. 175, 78; SNG BN 367 var. (no Corinthian helmet); SNG Cop. 323 var. (same); SNG von Aulock 5964 var. (same); SNG Levante 121. AR. 10.52 g. 22.50 mm. R. Rare variety. A choice example, brilliant and lightly toned. Minor striking weakness on high points and reverse slightly off centre, otherwise about EF. Balakros, the son of Amyntas had been appointed as one of the "Bodyguard", or seven adjutants assigned to Alexander III of Macedon. At Gaugamela, he and his force of javelin men helped to defeat the Persian chariots, ensuring Macedonian success. After the Battle of Issos in 333 BC, Balakros was appointed satrap of Cilicia to replace Mazaios' short-lived successor, Arsames, whose strategy led the advance of Alexander III of Macedon into Cilicia. While Alexander III of Macedon advanced deeper into Persian territory, his appointees remained behind to secure Asia Minor. Balakros assisted Antigonos Monopthalmos by retaking Miletos. Balakros later perished, however, attempting to bring Pisidia under Macedonian control.
(Triton VII, 2004, 327 note).