Catalogue
| Émetteur | Kings of Baktria |
|---|---|
| Année | 125 BC - 110 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | Dichalkon (1⁄24) |
| Devise | Drachm (305-15BC) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Poids | 9.22 g |
| Diamètre | |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Square (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | Bop#31 , BIGR#strato_i.36 , SNG ANS 9#1019 , MIG#336 |
| Description de l’avers | A stylized rose in the form of a heart, in the graphic canvas of which the word `love` is written in the most common languages of the world, which emphasizes the universality and limitlessness of this feeling, which knows no borders and language barriers. |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | Greek |
| Légende de l’avers | УКРАЇНА 10₴ 20 25 |
| Description du revers | Heart is depicted in relief, from which the waves diverge evenly. The stylized composition is a symbol of sincere and comprehensive love, the vibrations of which reach the innermost depths of the soul. |
| Écriture du revers | Kharosthi |
| Légende du revers | |
| Tranche | Plain with incuse lettering |
| Atelier |
National Bank of Ukraine Banknote Printing and Minting Works, Kyiv, Ukraine (1998-date) |
| Tirage |
2025 - Special Uncirculated - 5 000 |
| ID Numisquare | 1892169960 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
Historical Context: This Dichalkon, issued by Strato I, provides a tangible link to the tumultuous late Hellenistic period in Baktria, spanning approximately 125-110 BC. Strato I, often known as "Soter" (Saviour), reigned during a period of significant political fragmentation and external pressures from nomadic tribes, particularly the Scythians. His extensive bronze coinage, of which this dichalkon is an example, reflects the economic needs of a kingdom grappling with shifting power dynamics and the gradual contraction of its territories. These smaller denominations were crucial for daily commerce, underscoring the resilience of local economies amidst broader imperial decline.
Artistry: While specific engravers for Baktrian bronzes are rarely identifiable, the artistry of this Dichalkon emanates from the royal mints, reflecting the prevailing late Hellenistic stylistic school. Typically, the obverse would feature a diademed bust of Strato I, rendered with an idealized, yet often stern, regal bearing characteristic of Indo-Greek portraiture. The reverse often depicted a deity or symbolic motif, such as Athena Alkidemos or Herakles, executed with a degree of stylization common for bronze issues, which prioritized clear identification over the intricate detail found on silver coinage. The design served to reinforce the king's legitimacy and divine patronage.
Technical/Grading: Weighing 9.22 grams, this dichalkon exhibits a substantial fabric for its denomination, indicative of a well-controlled bronze alloy. Common high-points for wear on such issues include the hair and facial features of the king's portrait on the obverse, and the head or outstretched limbs of any reverse deity. Technical strike qualities for Baktrian bronzes can vary; while some pieces show strong, centered strikes, others may exhibit minor off-centering or areas of weaker impression due to the nature of the striking process. The flan itself might display some surface porosity, typical for ancient bronze coinage, which should be considered during grading.