Didrachm

Emissor Skyros
Ano 485 BC - 480 BC
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valor Didrachm (2)
Moeda Drachm
Composição Silver
Peso 8.67 g
Diâmetro 22.0 mm
Espessura
Formato Round (irregular)
Técnica Hammered, Incuse
Orientação
Gravador(es)
Em circulação até
Referência(s)
Descrição do anverso Two long horned and bearded goats, opposed vertically, back to back, with their heads turned inwards and their legs extended. Between them, a five-lobed fig leaf
Escrita do anverso
Legenda do anverso
Descrição do reverso Stellate design composed of a large central globule surrounded by four smaller ones and by two rays towards the upper left and lower right and two three-lobed fig leaves towards the upper right and the lower left. All within incuse square
Escrita do reverso
Legenda do reverso
Bordo
Casa da moeda
Tiragem ND (485 BC - 480 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 5584260180
Informações adicionais

Historical Context: This silver didrachm, issued by the island polis of Skyros between 485 and 480 BC, marks a pivotal moment in Greek history. Situated in the Aegean, Skyros, though a minor power, navigated the immediate aftermath of the Persian Wars. Its coinage signifies economic autonomy and participation in the Hellenic trade network, reflecting early Classical city-state self-representation, preceding later Athenian influence.

Artistry: While specific design details are unprovided, typical Skyrian didrachms of this early Classical transitional period featured local emblems. The obverse likely depicted a standing goat, a symbol deeply associated with the island, rendered with nascent naturalism. The reverse typically presented a simpler design, perhaps an incuse square or an early civic device, indicative of evolving numismatic artistry. The engraver remains anonymous, as common for the era.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 8.67 grams and measuring 22.0 millimeters, this didrachm conforms to the Attic-Euboic weight standard. High points for wear, if depicting a goat, would include the horns, eye, and musculature. Technical strike qualities often show off-centring, particularly on the reverse, and varying strike pressure inherent to early minting. Flan quality might exhibit minor irregularities, yet silver purity would generally be high, reflecting early Greek monetary integrity.

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