Drachm
| Émetteur | Pelinna |
|---|---|
| Année | 430 BC - 400 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | Drachm (1) |
| Devise | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Poids | 6.06 g |
| Diamètre | 17.0 mm |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | BCD Thessaly I#1227, HGC 4#264, BCD Thessaly II#511 |
| Description de l’avers | Thessalian cavalryman, wearing petasos and chlamys, and holding a transverse spear, riding to right on galloping horse. Below, in tiny letters, ΙΑ. |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | Greek |
| Légende de l’avers |
(Translation: ΙΑ) |
| Description du revers | Warrior advancing left, wearing petasos and chlamys and with a sword in a scabbard held by a baldric, hurling short spear with his right hand and holding a round shield, ornamented with a star, and two other spears in his left |
| Écriture du revers | Greek |
| Légende du revers |
ΠΕΛΙΝ (Translation: Pelinnaic issues) |
| Tranche | |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
ND (430 BC - 400 BC) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 1137434260 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
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Historical Context: This silver drachm from Pelinna, struck 430-400 BC, places it within the tumultuous late Classical period, contemporary with the Peloponnesian War. Pelinna was an important Thessalian city, famed for its fertile plains and cavalry. The coinage underscores its economic autonomy and participation in regional trade and military affairs. Such issues were crucial for paying mercenaries and facilitating commerce during an era of significant political upheaval and shifting alliances among Greek city-states.
Artistry: The specific engraver of this Pelinna drachm remains anonymous, common for most Greek city-states of this period, with signed dies rare. Stylistically, the coin adheres to the High Classical tradition prevalent in Thessaly. While specific motifs are not provided, Thessalian coinage frequently features the region's celebrated horses, depicted with considerable dynamism and naturalism. The artistry reflects the period's evolving aesthetic, moving towards greater realism and away from archaic conventions, showcasing fine detail in musculature or drapery.
Technical/Grading: For optimal grading, collectors should prioritize a strong, centered strike, ensuring full visibility of design elements. Key high-points include the clarity and detail of any human or equine features: a well-defined horse's mane, musculature, and bridle, or intricate facial features and drapery of a deity or nymph. Legibility of the city's ethnic (e.g., ΠΕΛΙΝΝΑΙΩΝ) is paramount. Surface quality, free from significant corrosion, scratches, or flan flaws, and good metal integrity (6.06g, 17.0mm) are also critical.