Æ - Ariarathes III

Đơn vị phát hành Kings of Cappadokia
Năm 230 BC - 220 BC
Loại Standard circulation coin
Mệnh giá
Tiền tệ Drachm
Chất liệu Bronze
Trọng lượng 6.14 g
Đường kính 19.5 mm
Độ dày
Hình dạng Round (irregular)
Kỹ thuật Hammered
Hướng
Nghệ nhân khắc
Lưu hành đến
Tài liệu tham khảo HGC 7#801 var.
Mô tả mặt trước Head right, wearing bashlyk.
Chữ viết mặt trước
Chữ khắc mặt trước
Mô tả mặt sau Herm of goddess, holding branch and palm, supported by two sphinxes, seated back-to-back.
Chữ viết mặt sau Greek
Chữ khắc mặt sau ΔΣ API ANIΣA ΔΩ
Cạnh
Xưởng đúc
Số lượng đúc ND (230 BC - 220 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 6786304440
Thông tin bổ sung

Historical Context:Ariarathes III (c. 255-220 BC) marked Cappadocia's pivotal transition from satrapy to independent kingdom. This issue, dated 230-220 BC, reflects his solidification of Cappadocian autonomy amidst the volatile Hellenistic landscape. He strengthened ties with the Seleucid Empire through marriage to Antiochis III, daughter of Seleucus II Callinicus, a strategic alliance crucial for the nascent kingdom's survival. This Æ issue underscores his authority and the establishment of a distinct Cappadocian identity.

Artistry:The artistry of this bronze coin, though unsigned, reflects prevailing Hellenistic stylistic traditions of the early 3rd century BC, likely influenced by Seleucid or Attic workshops. The obverse often features a diademed head of Ariarathes III, rendered with idealized realism common to royal portraiture, emphasizing regal authority. The reverse design, frequently depicting a standing deity like Athena or a horse, was executed with competent skill, embodying iconographic choices projecting divine favor or regional significance.

Technical/Grading:This bronze issue, weighing 6.14 gg and measuring 19.5 mm, exhibits characteristics typical of early Hellenistic Æ coinage. High-points for wear or strike quality on the obverse include the ruler's hair and facial features. On the reverse, details of the deity's drapery or the horse's musculature are critical. A well-struck example shows a relatively centered design on a prepared flan, with clear details. Variations in strike pressure and flan irregularities are common for bronze issues, impacting overall preservation and grade.

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