Ancient Greek Weaponry

The Hellenistic Age began with the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BC and lasted until the true establishment of the Roman Empire upon the death of Cleopatra in 30 BC. The method of warfare in ancient Greece, and the world, consisted of arrows, spears, swords, axes and shields. Because of its ease of casting and superiority in strength, bronze was preferred in the making of weapons.

Luristan Dagger 100 - 300 BC

Bronze dagger; Probably Luristan; 9-1/2" length, with the blade about 6", cast in one piece. The wood inlays are missing as they are on all daggers of this period. Dark patina; some light corrosion and dirt where the inlays were present; scuffing around the inlay's edge; ancient scratch marks on the blade. It would appear to be 3rd to 1st Century B.C., but quite possibly earlier.

A Large Greek Spear Point
Circa 5th Century BC

Fine Greek weapons and military gear are quite rare in any condition. Here we have a choice example of a large spear point with the edges still quite sharp. A spear like this brings vividly to life the epic battles of the heroic Greek age.

The long, finely worked blade with central ridge, two prongs for attachment of streamers at the base. Length: 47.6 cm. (13.75"). Metal composition: Bronze with natural green and brown patina. Comes with custom plexiglass stand.

Greek Bronze Arrowhead
circa 300 BC
Ancient Greece

The Hellenistic world was dominated by three great monarchies established by former Generals of Alexander. The Ptolomies ruled Egypt, The Seleucids ruled Syria, and Macedonia was ruled by Antigonus and his descendency.The Antigonid dynasty was constantly at war. It fought with other Greek states, the other Hellinstic kings, and later with Rome. These arrowheads are dated to this period of great strife and were possibly used in the attack or defense of one of these many battles including the eventual and inevitable clash with Rome which occurred without warning in 200 BC. Philip's army of only 25,000 men was attacked by Roman forces with great reserves of manpower. By skillfull maneuvering with a quality army Philip kept his enemies apart until 197 BC. He eventually left an army of 40,000 men to his son Perseus in 179 BC which was eventually attacked by the Romans in 168 BC. This time Rome prevailed with 20,000 Macedonians fighting to the last at close quarters.
Though little is known as to the true purpose, these arrowheads contain a highly visible monogram near the base.

Scythian Arrowhead

The Scythic archer.

Here you see a typical Scythic archer. The Scyths, or Sakae, were extremely good archers. That is the reason why the Athenian tyrant Pisistratus hired them in the middle of the sixth century. As mercenaries they participated in the battles besides the Athenian phalanx, but inside the city they also were used to maintain the order. They are quite often seen in paintings on Attic vases. However, they were of no use for Athens during the battle of Marathon. They refused to fight their Asiatic brothers, and a group of Sakae even joined the Persian side during the battle. In the fifth century the king of Persia also hired Scythic mercenaries to teach his warriors the art of archery.

Luristan Dagger 100 - 300 BC

A Large Greek Spear Point Circa 5th Century BC

A Large Greek Spear Point
Circa 5th Century BC