Chalkon

Uitgever Lamia
Jaar 400 BC - 350 BC
Type Standard circulation coin
Waarde Chalkon (1⁄48)
Valuta Drachm
Samenstelling Bronze
Gewicht 2.08 g
Diameter 15.0 mm
Dikte
Vorm Round (irregular)
Techniek Hammered
Oriëntatie
Graveur(s)
In omloop tot
Referentie(s) BCD Thessaly II#128.3
Beschrijving voorzijde Head of the nymph Lamia facing right, wearing an earring and a necklace
Schrift voorzijde
Opschrift voorzijde
Beschrijving keerzijde Philoktetes, wearing a pilos, reclining left on rocks, raising right hand and placing it left on the rocks. A bow and a quiver to the left
Schrift keerzijde Greek
Opschrift keerzijde ΛΑΜΙ
Rand
Muntplaats
Oplage ND (400 BC - 350 BC) - -
Numisquare-ID 8968856800
Aanvullende informatie

Historical Context: Lamia, a prominent Thessalian city, issued this chalkon during 400-350 BC, a period of significant geopolitical flux following the Peloponnesian War. Thessaly experienced a resurgence of local power before Macedonian ascendancy. This bronze denomination reflects Lamia's civic independence and economic activity, serving as essential currency for daily transactions. Its production underscores the city's self-governance in a complex Hellenic landscape.

Artistry: The artistry of this chalkon, typical for a bronze issue of its era, exhibits Late Classical Greek numismatic traditions. Though engravers are anonymous for minor denominations, the design likely features a laureate head of a local nymph, perhaps Lamia herself, on the obverse. The reverse commonly depicts a horse or horse's head, an enduring symbol of Thessaly's famed cavalry and equestrian culture, rendered with naturalism reflective of the period's artistic sensibilities.

Technical/Grading: This 2.08-gram, 15.0-millimeter chalkon presents typical challenges for striking small bronze flans. High points on the obverse nymph's portrait include hair details, forehead, and cheekbone; the horse's mane and musculature would be prominent on the reverse. Assessment focuses on strike clarity, centering, and flan integrity. Variations in strike pressure and die wear are common, often causing flatness, making well-preserved examples with full details and a strong strike particularly desirable.

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