Æ - Prusias I or II

Emisor Kings of Bithynia
Año 230 BC - 149 BC
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valor
Moneda Drachm
Composición Bronze
Peso 1.98 g
Diámetro 15 mm
Grosor
Forma Round (irregular)
Técnica Hammered
Orientación Variable alignment ↺
Grabador(es)
En circulación hasta
Referencia(s) Recueil#33-35 Copenhagen#643-644 7#632
Descripción del anverso Forepart of bridled horse left or right.
Escritura del anverso
Leyenda del anverso
Descripción del reverso Wild boar running right; spearhead below.
Escritura del reverso Greek
Leyenda del reverso ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΠΡΟΥΣΙΟΥ
(Translation: King Prusias)
Canto
Casa de moneda
Tirada ND (230 BC - 149 BC) - -
ID de Numisquare 4904528390
Información adicional

Historical Context: This Æ coin is attributed to Prusias I (230-182 BC) or Prusias II (182-149 BC), kings of Bithynia. These Hellenistic monarchs governed a vital kingdom in northwestern Asia Minor, navigating complex regional politics involving Pergamon, Pontus, and Rome. Bronze issues like this were crucial for the kingdom's internal economy, facilitating daily commerce and asserting royal authority. The shared attribution highlights continuity in royal iconography and dating challenges for this bronze series.

Artistry: Produced by an anonymous engraver, this coin exemplifies the Hellenistic stylistic school, blending idealized forms with royal portraiture. The obverse invariably features a diademed head of Prusias, projecting regal power. The reverse typically depicts a deity or symbol relevant to Bithynian royal mythology, such as Apollo, Zeus, or a ship's prow. Despite its modest 15mm module, the design intended to convey the majesty and legitimacy of the Bithynian monarchy to its subjects.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a 15mm bronze flan weighing 1.98 grams, this coin reflects common Hellenistic Æ production. High-points on the obverse portrait include the diadem, hair, nose, and chin; on the reverse, the head and attributes of any depicted figure. Strike quality often varies, with off-centering, minor flan irregularities, and weaker strikes common. The bronze fabric is susceptible to patination and corrosion, critically influencing preservation of details and overall aesthetic grade.

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