Sale: Triton VII, Lot: 327. Estimate $1000.  Closing Date: Monday, 12 January 2004.  Sold For $1500. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

CILICIA, Tarsos. Balakros, Satrap. 333-323 BC. AR Stater (10.56 gm). Baaltars seated left, holding lotus-tipped sceptre in right hand; grain ear and grape-bunch in left field, B and ivy leaf right, monogram under throne / Draped bust of Athena facing slightly left, wearing triple-crested helmet and necklace; small crested Corinthian helmet in upper left field. SNG Levante 121 (this coin); SNG France 367 var. (no Corinthian helmet); BMC Lycaonia pg. 175, 78; SNG Copenhagen 323 var. (same); SNG von Aulock 5964 var. (same). Toned EF, slight striking weakness on high points. ($1000)

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.

(For a more detailed discussion of the career of Balakros, see lot 327)