Æ - Pausanias, son of Metrodoros

Uitgever Magnesia ad Meandrum (Ionia)
Jaar 145 BC - 80 BC
Type Standard circulation coin
Waarde
Valuta Drachm
Samenstelling Bronze
Gewicht 8.21 g
Diameter 21.5 mm
Dikte
Vorm Round (irregular)
Techniek Hammered
Oriëntatie Variable alignment ↺
Graveur(s)
In omloop tot
Referentie(s) SNG von Aulock#2041 , SNG Munich 20#602
Beschrijving voorzijde Draped bust of Artemis right, bow and quiver over shoulder.
Schrift voorzijde
Opschrift voorzijde
Beschrijving keerzijde Stag grazing right on maeander pattern; magistrate’s name in exergue.
Schrift keerzijde Greek
Opschrift keerzijde
Rand
Muntplaats
Oplage ND (145 BC - 80 BC) - -
Numisquare-ID 3830671470
Aanvullende informatie

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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