The Ptolemaic dynasty, Greek successors to Alexander the Great, ruled Egypt in lavish splendor for almost three centuries. Their capital of Alexandria was famous for its opulent and luxurious lifestyle as well as for its artistic and intellectual activities. This superb coin, minted by one of the great Ptolemaic kings, evokes the wealth and splendor of that vanished world. As we run our fingers over it today, we cannot help but wonder who might have held it centuries ago. As our gestures echo theirs, we are connected in an intimate way with the glories of the classical past.