Catalogue
| Émetteur | Sidon |
|---|---|
| Année | 365 BC - 352 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | 2 Silver Shekels |
| Devise | Shekel (539-332 BCE) |
| Composition | Silver (.980) |
| Poids | 25.38 g |
| Diamètre | 25 mm |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | BMC Greek#29, Sunrise#130, Betlyon#23, HGC 10#242 |
| Description de l’avers | War galley, lined with shields and with a standard at the stern, sailing to left over two bands of waves below, date above |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | |
| Légende de l’avers | |
| Description du revers | Slow quadriga to left on ground line, behind the driver stands the Great King of Persia, his right hand raised, Abd’Ashtart walks behind in Egyptian-style dress, holding a cult-sceptre and a votive vase |
| Écriture du revers | |
| Légende du revers |
(Translation: `‘bh` (Abdashtart/Straton)) |
| Tranche | Smooth |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
ND (365 BC - 352 BC) - BMC#1 (Obv. date III - Rev. letter 90) - ND (365 BC - 352 BC) - Obverse date I - Rev. letter 90 - ND (365 BC - 352 BC) - Obverse date II - Rev. letter 90 - ND (365 BC - 352 BC) - Obverse date II III - Rev. letter ЯO) - ND (365 BC - 352 BC) - Obverse date II_ - Rev. letter ЯO) - ND (365 BC - 352 BC) - Obverse date III - Rev. letter ЯO) - ND (365 BC - 352 BC) - Obverse date IIII - Rev. letter ЯO) - ND (365 BC - 352 BC) - Obverse date IIII III - Rev. letter ЯO) - |
| ID Numisquare | 5489496540 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
Historical Context: This impressive silver Double Shekel was issued by Abdashtart I, also known as Straton I, King of Sidon, during his reign from 365 to 352 BC. As a powerful client king under the Achaemenid Persian Empire, Abdashtart I presided over Sidon's golden age, a period marked by immense maritime trade, naval strength, and significant economic prosperity. These large denominations were crucial for facilitating international commerce and funding Sidon's formidable fleet, underscoring the city's strategic importance and wealth within the eastern Mediterranean. The coinage subtly balances Sidonian autonomy with an acknowledgment of Persian suzerainty.
Artistry: While specific engravers remain anonymous, the coin's artistry reflects a sophisticated blend of Phoenician identity and contemporary Hellenistic influence, characteristic of the late Classical period. The obverse prominently features a detailed war galley, typically a trireme or bireme, sailing left over waves, symbolizing Sidon's naval supremacy. Often, a Phoenician letter for Abdashtart appears below. The reverse typically depicts the Great King of Persia, or Abdashtart himself in Persian attire, in a quadriga, driven by a charioteer, with an attendant following. This iconic design serves as a powerful visual testament to Sidon's dual cultural and political allegiance.
Technical/Grading: Struck from high-purity silver (.980) on a broad flan weighing 25.38 grams, this Double Shekel showcases significant technical qualities. Key high-points for evaluation include the intricate details of the galley's prow, shields, and oars on the obverse, and on the reverse, the facial features of the figures, the musculature of the horses, and the spokes of the chariot. A well-centered strike with strong pressure is desirable, ensuring full detail on these prominent elements. Examples exhibiting minimal wear on the highest points, good planchet quality, and a clear, complete strike are highly prized by collectors and historians alike.