Catalog
| Issuer | Arados |
|---|---|
| Year | 128 BC - 127 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Dichalkon (1⁄24) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 3.17 g |
| Diameter | 17.5 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | GCV#6004, BMC Greek#246 |
| Obverse description | Conjoined busts to right of Zeus laureate and Hera wearing stephane. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Prow of galley decorated, left, with triple-pointed ram, a figurehead of Athena above; above, Phoenician letters; below, year of issue in Phoenician figures, and Phoenician letter. |
| Reverse script | Phoenician |
| Reverse lettering | לα Νקνι |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (128 BC - 127 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 4832571590 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued by the autonomous Phoenician city of Arados between 128 and 127 BC, this dichalkos dates to a period of significant prosperity and independence. Having secured freedom from Seleucid rule, Arados flourished as a major maritime and commercial hub. Bronze coinage like this served vital local economic functions, facilitating daily transactions and underscoring the city's self-governance, rooted in its powerful naval capabilities and traditional pantheon.
Artistry: The coin features jugate busts of Zeus and Hera on the obverse, a less common divine pairing emphasizing authority and harmony, reflecting civic values. The reverse depicts Athena, goddess of wisdom and warfare, standing over a galley prow. This potent symbol unequivocally celebrates Arados's formidable naval strength and maritime dominance, essential to its economic prosperity and defense. The anonymous engraver's design adheres to the Hellenistic stylistic tradition, blending classical forms with symbolic clarity and civic pride.
Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze, measuring 17.5 mm and weighing 3.17 grams, this dichalkos is a typical small denomination. Key high-points for grading on the obverse include the foreheads, noses, and hair details of Zeus and Hera. On the reverse, Athena's helmet and the distinctive features of the galley prow are critical for assessing wear. Bronze issues frequently exhibit variable strike quality, often with less precise centering or weaker definition. A well-preserved example boasts a stable, attractive patina, enhancing the legibility of its iconic maritime imagery.