Didrachm

İhraççı Phasis (Kolchis)
Yıl 480 BC - 450 BC
Tür Standard circulation coin
Değer Didrachm (2)
Para birimi Drachm
Bileşim Silver
Ağırlık 10.78 g
Çap 21 mm
Kalınlık
Şekil Round (irregular)
Teknik Hammered, Incuse
Yönlendirme Variable alignment ↺
Gravürcü(ler)
Dolaşımda olduğu yıl
Referans(lar) SNG BM Black Sea#1010, BostonMFA#1352, GCV#3627, Hind#2, Regling Kunstwerk#280, Kraay&Hirm#692
Ön yüz açıklaması Lion with open jaws, head turned back, to left or right.
Ön yüz yazısı
Ön yüz lejandı
Arka yüz açıklaması Female character (or Minotaur?) with kneeling bull's head in an incuse rectangle.
Arka yüz yazısı
Arka yüz lejandı
Kenar
Darphane Phasis, modern-day Poti, Georgia
Basma adedi ND (480 BC - 450 BC)
Numisquare Kimliği 4786634388
Ek bilgiler

Historical Context:This silver didrachm, issued by the Greek colony of Phasis in Kolchis (modern Georgia) between 480 and 450 BC, marks a pivotal era. As a crucial trading hub on the eastern Black Sea, Phasis controlled access to a resource-rich interior. This period, transitioning from Archaic to Early Classical, saw significant geopolitical shifts. The issuance of substantial coinage underscores Phasis's economic autonomy, strategic importance, and robust commercial power.

Artistry:The didrachm's design embodies Early Classical numismatic artistry. The obverse typically features an androcephalic bull's head, symbolizing the river god Phasis, linking the city's identity to its vital waterway. The reverse consistently displays a formidable gorgoneion, an apotropaic protective symbol. While engraver attribution is unknown, the stylistic execution transitions from Archaic rigidity, showcasing developing naturalism and detailed rendering characteristic of the period.

Technical/Grading:Weighing 10.78 grams and measuring 21 millimeters, this silver didrachm represents a substantial currency. Key high-points for evaluation include the horns and facial details of the obverse bull's head, and the eyes, nose, and open mouth of the reverse gorgoneion. A strong strike would reveal crisp detail in these areas. Technical strike quality, including centering and flan shape, can vary. The consistent weight indicates a carefully maintained monetary standard.

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