Civilization: Seleucid Empire
Ruler: Antiochos IX Kyzikenos
Mint: Sidon
Year: 112 - 111 BC
Composition: Bronze
Denomination: Chalkon
Diameter: 15.8mm
Weight: 4.92g
Reference:

Obverse
Winged bust of Eros right

Reverse
Nike advancing left, holding wreath and palm; BAΣΙΛΕΩΣ ANTIOXOY ΦIΛOΠATOPOΣ

Antiochus IX Cyzicenus reigned as a Seleucid king from around 114 to 95 BCE, a period marked by internal strife and fragmentation in the empire. He was the son of Antiochus VII and Cleopatra Thea and initially contested the throne with his half-brother Antiochus VIII Grypus, leading to a prolonged civil war. His epithet, "Cyzicenus," came from the city of Cyzicus, where he spent part of his youth in exile. During his reign, Antiochus IX controlled parts of Syria but struggled to hold significant power, as rival factions weakened the central authority of the Seleucid state. The ongoing civil war left the kingdom divided and vulnerable, with many cities operating independently or under the control of local warlords. Antiochus IX faced invasions from external forces, including the rise of regional powers like the Parthians, further eroding Seleucid influence. In 96 BCE, his forces were ultimately defeated by Seleucus VI, the son of his rival Antiochus VIII, leading to his death. His reign epitomized the decline of the Seleucid Empire, characterized by family feuds, weakening central control, and encroaching threats on all fronts.