Catalogue
| Émetteur | Kings of Baktria |
|---|---|
| Année | 95 BC - 90 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | Double Decadrachm (20) |
| Devise | Attic drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Poids | 85 g |
| Diamètre | 65 mm |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | BIGR#amyntas.1 , MIG#385 , Bop#1 |
| Description de l’avers | Bust of Amyntas, diademed and draped, wearing Boeotian helmet adorned with bull`s horn and ear right; bead and reel border. |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | |
| Légende de l’avers | |
| Description du revers | Zeus draped in three-quarter view left, seated on throne, armed Athena on outstretched right hand, sceptre and palm branch in left hand. |
| Écriture du revers | Greek |
| Légende du revers |
ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΝΙΚΑΤΟΡΟΣ ΑΜΥΝΤΟΥ (Translation: King Amyntas, the Victor) |
| Tranche | |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
ND (95 BC - 90 BC) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 1549768540 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
Historical Context: The Double Decadrachm of Amyntas (95-90 BC) is a monumental numismatic statement from a later Indo-Greek king. Ruling Baktria amidst geopolitical instability and facing Scythian/Parthian pressures, Amyntas issued this exceptionally heavy (85g) and large (65mm) silver denomination. It was a deliberate assertion of royal power, economic strength, and prestige. This potent propaganda showcased his sovereignty and the enduring wealth of his Hellenistic kingdom during a fragmenting political landscape.
Artistry: This coin exemplifies the superb Hellenistic artistic tradition of Baktrian mints. The obverse features a masterful, idealized portrait of Amyntas, often diademed or helmeted, conveying regal authority and martial prowess. The anonymous engraver skillfully captured the king's commanding presence. The reverse commonly displays Athena Alkidemos, standing left, holding a shield and brandishing a thunderbolt. This powerful motif symbolizes divine protection and military strength, reflecting the high artistic standards maintained by Indo-Greek craftsmen.
Technical/Grading: The immense size and weight of this Double Decadrachm presented significant striking challenges. High-point wear on the obverse typically affects Amyntas's hair, ear, and prominent facial features. On the reverse, wear is commonly observed on Athena's head, drapery, and attributes. Due to the large flan, minor flatness or slight off-centering is not uncommon. Premium examples exhibit a strong central strike, excellent metal quality, and minimal die wear, reflecting both the original minting process and the coin's subsequent preservation.