Æ13

Historical Context: This Æ13 coin was issued by the city of Nysa between 133 BC and 100 BC, a pivotal late Hellenistic period. Following the Attalid bequest of Pergamon to Rome, Nysa, likely in Caria or Lydia, became part of the Roman province of Asia. Despite Roman suzerainty, Nysa retained the right to strike local bronze coinage. These small denominations underscore the enduring economic autonomy and civic identity maintained by Greek cities amidst profound geopolitical shifts.

Artistry: The artistic execution reflects the Hellenistic stylistic tradition, emphasizing naturalism and idealization. For small municipal bronzes, a specific engraver is rarely identifiable. Designs typically featured a prominent deity or allegorical figure. Given Nysa's mythological association with Dionysus, it is highly probable that Dionysiac iconography, such as a youthful head of Dionysus or a symbolic thyrsus, would have been employed, representing local cults and civic identity.

Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze, weighing 1.95 grams and 13 millimeters, this coin exemplifies typical small module Hellenistic bronzes. High-points for grading include the highest relief areas of any portrait or central elements of a reverse device. Such issues often exhibit irregular flans, minor off-centering, and variable strike pressure. The absence of specific references in major catalogues (SNG von Aulock, SNG Copenhagen, BMC Greek) suggests this type is unlisted or exceedingly rare, making its existence significant for numismatic study regardless of preserved grade.