کاتالوگ
| صادرکننده | Kition |
|---|---|
| سال | 425 BC - 400 BC |
| نوع | Standard circulation coin |
| ارزش | ⅓ Siglos |
| واحد پول | Drachm |
| ترکیب | Silver |
| وزن | 3.56 g |
| قطر | 13 mm |
| ضخامت | |
| شکل | Round (irregular) |
| تکنیک | Hammered |
| جهت | |
| حکاک(ها) | |
| در گردش تا | |
| مرجع(ها) | BMC Greek#37 |
| توضیحات روی سکه | Bearded Heracles wearing a lion`s hide on his shoulder, walking towards right. He is holding a bow with outstreched left hand and holding a club above his head with his right hand. Ankh symbol on his right. Beaded ring on the rim. |
|---|---|
| خط روی سکه | |
| نوشتههای روی سکه | |
| توضیحات پشت سکه | Lunging lion bringing down a stag that is kneeling towards the right. King`s name above it and all is in a beaded square. |
| خط پشت سکه | |
| نوشتههای پشت سکه | |
| لبه | |
| ضرابخانه | |
| تیراژ ضرب |
ND (425 BC - 400 BC) - - |
| شناسه Numisquare | 6401051350 |
| اطلاعات تکمیلی |
Historical Context: This 1/3 Siglos was issued by Baalmelek II, King of Kition, a prominent Phoenician city-kingdom on Cyprus, during the Late Classical period (425-400 BC). Kition, strategically vital for Mediterranean trade, operated as a semi-autonomous entity under Achaemenid Persian suzerainty. Baalmelek II's coinage underscored Kition's economic independence and political identity, reflecting the city’s significant role and distinct Phoenician heritage. These issues were essential for local commerce.
Artistry: While the engraver remains anonymous, this coin exemplifies the Phoenician-Cypriot stylistic school, blending indigenous traditions with nascent Greek influences. The obverse typically depicts Herakles, often identified with the Phoenician god Melqart, advancing right, holding a club and bow, clad in a lion-skin. This powerful iconography symbolizes divine protection and royal authority. The reverse features a lion walking right, often with the Phoenician inscription 'b'lmlk' (Baalmelek), asserting the monarch's name.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, weighing 3.56 grams and measuring 13 millimeters, this denomination often exhibits characteristics typical of small flan coinage. High-points for preservation on the obverse include Herakles' head, musculature, and the lion-skin's texture. On the reverse, the lion's mane, powerful stance, and the legibility of the Phoenician inscription are critical details. Due to the modest flan size, full inscription visibility and perfect centering can be challenging, though well-struck examples show strong relief.