Diobol

Emittente Eion
Anno 500 BC
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valore Diobol (⅓)
Valuta Drachm
Composizione Silver
Peso 0.91 g
Diametro 9.0 mm
Spessore
Forma Round (irregular)
Tecnica Hammered, Incuse
Orientamento
Incisore/i
In circolazione fino al
Riferimento/i SNG ANS 7#269
Descrizione del dritto Goose standing and facing right with its head reverted. A lizard above.
Scrittura del dritto
Legenda del dritto
Descrizione del rovescio Rough incuse square.
Scrittura del rovescio
Legenda del rovescio
Bordo
Zecca
Tiratura ND (-500) - -
ID Numisquare 9827638580
Informazioni aggiuntive

Historical Context: This silver diobol, struck by the ancient city of Eion circa 500 BC, from a pivotal period in Archaic Thrace. Eion, strategically located at the Strymon River mouth, was a crucial port and gateway to the rich silver mines of Mount Pangaeon. Its early coinage underscores Eion's economic prominence and role as a trading hub for raw materials. No singular ruler is associated; the coin reflects the city's burgeoning autonomy and economic self-sufficiency during expanding Greek influence.

Artistry: Characteristic of the Archaic Greek stylistic school, this diobol's artistry is robust yet direct. The anonymous engraver rendered the obverse with clear, strong lines. The defining motif of Eion coinage, a goose, is typically depicted standing, often with a small animal below, symbolizing regional abundance. The reverse features a simple incuse square, a vestige of early minting technology. This animalistic iconography, a hallmark of Thracian mints, reflects local identity rather than political ideology.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 0.91 grams and measuring 9.0 millimeters, this diminutive silver diobol is a compact module. Key high-points include the goose's head, breast, and tail feathers. Given archaic production, technical strike qualities vary; common characteristics include minor off-centering, slight strike weakness, or irregular flan shapes. The reverse's incuse square, often deeply impressed, testifies to early manufacturing.

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