Catalogo
| Emittente | Armenia, Kingdom of |
|---|---|
| Anno | 160 BC - 121 BC |
| Tipo | Standard circulation coin |
| Valore | Tetrachalkon (1⁄12) |
| Valuta | Drachm |
| Composizione | Bronze |
| Peso | 4.01 g |
| Diametro | 17 mm |
| Spessore | |
| Forma | Round (irregular) |
| Tecnica | Hammered |
| Orientamento | |
| Incisore/i | |
| In circolazione fino al | |
| Riferimento/i | Kovacs#50 |
| Descrizione del dritto | Head of Artavasdes I facing right. Wearing tiara decorated with a star and tied with a diadem. |
|---|---|
| Scrittura del dritto | |
| Legenda del dritto | |
| Descrizione del rovescio | Eagle atop a mountain |
| Scrittura del rovescio | Greek |
| Legenda del rovescio |
ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΜΕΓΑΛΟΥ ΑΡΤΑΥΑΖΔΟΥ (Translation: The Great King Artavasdes) |
| Bordo | |
| Zecca | |
| Tiratura |
ND (160 BC - 121 BC) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 3517082290 |
| Informazioni aggiuntive |
Historical Context:This 4 Chalkoi bronze coin was issued during the reign of Artavasdes I, King of Armenia, from approximately 160 BC to 121 BC. Artavasdes I was a pivotal ruler of the Artaxiad dynasty, succeeding his father Artaxias I, the founder of the kingdom. His reign was characterized by efforts to consolidate Armenian independence amidst the shifting power dynamics between the Seleucid Empire and the rising Parthian Empire. Bronze denominations like this 4 Chalkoi were essential for daily commerce within the kingdom, facilitating local trade and reinforcing the royal authority of the Artaxiad monarchs throughout their territories.
Artistry:The artistry of this coin reflects a blend of Hellenistic influence, prevalent in the region, with distinct local Armenian symbolism. While specific engravers are not recorded for most ancient coinage, the stylistic school leans towards the Hellenistic tradition in its execution, often seen in the rendering of royal portraits if present. The reverse design featuring an eagle atop a mountain is particularly evocative. The eagle is a universal symbol of power and divinity, potentially representing a local deity or the king's divine right, while the mountain likely alludes to Mount Ararat, a sacred and central geographical feature of Armenia, signifying the kingdom's enduring strength and territorial identity.
Technical/Grading:This bronze 4 Chalkoi, measuring 17mm and weighing 4.01g, typically exhibits technical strike qualities common for ancient bronze issues. High-points for wear and strike detail would include the eagle's head, wingtips, and the peak of the mountain on the reverse, as well as any facial features or diadem elements on the obverse if a portrait is present. Due to the nature of bronze flans and striking methods of the period, these coins frequently display some degree of off-centering, areas of weakness, or surface granularity. Preservation often involves assessing the extent of corrosion and the clarity of the primary design elements.