Didrachm

Đơn vị phát hành Phasis (Kolchis)
Năm 480 BC - 450 BC
Loại Standard circulation coin
Mệnh giá Didrachm (2)
Tiền tệ Drachm
Chất liệu Silver
Trọng lượng 10.78 g
Đường kính 21 mm
Độ dày
Hình dạng Round (irregular)
Kỹ thuật Hammered, Incuse
Hướng Variable alignment ↺
Nghệ nhân khắc
Lưu hành đến
Tài liệu tham khảo SNG BM Black Sea#1010, BostonMFA#1352, GCV#3627, Hind#2, Regling Kunstwerk#280, Kraay&Hirm#692
Mô tả mặt trước Lion with open jaws, head turned back, to left or right.
Chữ viết mặt trước
Chữ khắc mặt trước
Mô tả mặt sau Female character (or Minotaur?) with kneeling bull's head in an incuse rectangle.
Chữ viết mặt sau
Chữ khắc mặt sau
Cạnh
Xưởng đúc Phasis, modern-day Poti, Georgia
Số lượng đúc ND (480 BC - 450 BC)
ID Numisquare 4786634388
Thông tin bổ sung

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.

×