Æ - Pausanias, son of Metrodoros

Emisor Magnesia ad Meandrum (Ionia)
Año 145 BC - 80 BC
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valor
Moneda Drachm
Composición Bronze
Peso 8.21 g
Diámetro 21.5 mm
Grosor
Forma Round (irregular)
Técnica Hammered
Orientación Variable alignment ↺
Grabador(es)
En circulación hasta
Referencia(s) SNG von Aulock#2041 , SNG Munich 20#602
Descripción del anverso Draped bust of Artemis right, bow and quiver over shoulder.
Escritura del anverso
Leyenda del anverso
Descripción del reverso Stag grazing right on maeander pattern; magistrate’s name in exergue.
Escritura del reverso Greek
Leyenda del reverso
Canto
Casa de moneda
Tirada ND (145 BC - 80 BC) - -
ID de Numisquare 3830671470
Información adicional

Historical Context: This Æ bronze coin was issued by the Ionian city of Magnesia ad Meandrum during the magistracy of Pausanias, son of Metrodoros, between 145 BC and 80 BC. This late Hellenistic era saw significant political flux in Asia Minor, with Seleucid decline and rising Roman influence. Magnesia, famed for its Temple of Artemis Leucophryene, maintained free city status, issuing coinage under magistrates' names, reflecting civic autonomy and local economy.

Artistry: The coin exemplifies the Hellenistic stylistic school of Asia Minor, blending naturalism and idealized forms. While the engraver is anonymous, the craftsmanship is evident. The obverse typically features a finely rendered portrait, likely a city deity such as Artemis or Zeus, with detailed coiffure and expressive features. The reverse often depicts a significant cult image or civic emblem, executed dynamically, reflecting Magnesia's rich cultural and religious identity.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a bronze flan (8.21 grams, 21.5 millimeters), this issue reflects typical late Hellenistic civic bronze dimensions. For grading, high-points on the obverse include the portrait's hair and facial contours; on the reverse, drapery or musculature of the central motif. Well-preserved examples exhibit good centering, an even strike, and minimal die wear, often retaining original surface patination from careful flan preparation and metal quality.

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