The world of coin collecting is fascinating, especially when it connects us to significant historical figures and events. One exciting event coming up is the “Tyrants of the Nile” exhibit, showcasing ancient Egyptian coins, including those from the famous Queen Cleopatra. This article will provide all the details about the exhibit, the coins on display, and their historical importance. Whether you’re a coin enthusiast or just curious about history, there’s something for everyone!
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exhibit Name | Tyrants of the Nile |
| Event Dates | August 6-10, 2024 |
| Location | Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont, Illinois |
| Number of Coins Displayed | Approximately 350 |
| Key Collector | Dan O’Dowd, Southern California collector |
| Significant Coins | – Nectanebo Stater (361-350 B.C.) |
| – Cleopatra VII coins | |
| – Ptolemy IV Philopator gold octodrachm (221-204 B.C.) | |
| – Ptolemy I gold stater (312-311 B.C.) | |
| – Rare coins from Vespasian, Justinian I, and Shajar al-Durr | |
| Educational Material | Free illustrated booklet; detailed catalogs available for $10 |
| Organizers | American Numismatic Association (ANA) |
| Exhibit Value | $5 million |
What is the “Tyrants of the Nile” Exhibit?
The “Tyrants of the Nile” is an exhibition featuring rare coins from Egypt, which will be displayed for the first time at the American Numismatic Association’s World’s Fair of Money. This exhibit will take place from August 6 to August 10, 2024. It showcases around 350 coins from the Tyrant Collection, which is owned by Dan O’Dowd, a well-known collector from Southern California.
Historical Significance of the Collection
The coins in this exhibit date back to as early as 350 B.C. and continue up to more recent times, including a gold coin from 1980 that celebrates the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel. This variety allows visitors to see how coinage has changed throughout history. Ira Goldberg, the President of Goldberg Coins and Collectibles, mentions that this collection is considered the most valuable rare coin collection in private hands.
Highlights of the Exhibit
1. Nectanebo Stater
One of the most exciting coins on display is the Nectanebo stater. This coin is unique because it is the only known Egyptian coin that uses hieroglyphic script. It was minted around 361-350 B.C. under Pharaoh Nectanebo II. This stater is the oldest coin in the exhibit and is one of the finest examples of this extremely rare type.
2. Coins of Cleopatra
Cleopatra VII, one of history’s most famous queens, will also be a major highlight of the exhibit. The coins featuring her portrait offer a glimpse into what she looked like in real life. The exhibit includes:
- A silver tetradrachm from 41-40 B.C., which is unique and of significant historical importance.
- A silver diobol and obol minted in Alexandria, featuring magnificent portraits of Cleopatra and Marc Antony.
3. Rare Gold Coins
Several other extraordinary coins will be part of the exhibit:
- Ptolemy IV Philopator’s gold octodrachm (221-204 B.C.), known for its beautiful design, with only two examples in existence.
- Ptolemy I’s gold stater (312-311 B.C.), which is extremely rare, with only six known to exist.
- Vespasian with Titus as Caesar gold aureus (A.D. 69-79), minted in Alexandria after the fall of Jerusalem.
- Justinian I’s gold solidus (527-565), which is extremely rare and possibly only the sixth known example.
- A rare gold dinar of Shajar al-Durr, a queen from the Mamluk Sultanate, dating back to AH 648 (1250).
Visitor Information
Visitors to the “Tyrants of the Nile” exhibit can expect to see some of the most incredible coins from ancient Egypt. Each visitor will receive a free, illustrated educational booklet about the display. Additionally, detailed catalogs about each coin will be available for purchase at the event for $10 each.
Event Location and Timing
The exhibit will be held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, specifically in Hall A. This venue will host the ANA Chicago World’s Fair of Money, which is a significant event for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
The “Tyrants of the Nile” exhibit promises to be a remarkable experience for anyone interested in history, art, and numismatics (the study of coins). From the rare coins of Cleopatra to the unique Nectanebo stater, this exhibition provides a rare opportunity to connect with the past. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of coins, this exhibit offers something truly special. Mark your calendars for August 6-10, 2024, and prepare to explore the rich history of ancient Egypt through its coins.
FAQs
1. What is the “Tyrants of the Nile” exhibit?
The “Tyrants of the Nile” exhibit is a collection of ancient Egyptian coins that will be displayed for the first time at the American Numismatic Association’s World’s Fair of Money in August 2024.
2. When and where will the exhibit take place?
The exhibit will run from August 6 to August 10, 2024, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois.
3. Who is the collector behind the exhibit?
The exhibit features coins from the Tyrant Collection, owned by Dan O’Dowd, a well-known collector from Southern California.
4. How many coins will be displayed in the exhibit?
Approximately 350 coins will be showcased, spanning a wide range of historical periods.
5. What are some notable coins in the exhibit?
The Nectanebo Stater, the oldest known Egyptian coin.
Coins featuring Cleopatra VII.
A gold octodrachm from Ptolemy IV Philopator.
A gold stater from Ptolemy I.
Rare coins minted by Vespasian, Justinian I, and Shajar al-Durr.