Catalogue
| Émetteur | Pherai |
|---|---|
| Année | 460 BC - 440 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | Drachm (1) |
| Devise | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Poids | 5.70 g |
| Diamètre | |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
| Orientation | |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | BCD Thessaly I#1302, SNG Copenhagen#234 |
| Description de l’avers | The hero Thessalos, nude but for petasos and cloak hanging from his neck, bending to left, restraining bull with a band and forcing him down to left; on ground below, dolphin swimming right and, barely visible, lion’s head spout to left |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | |
| Légende de l’avers | |
| Description du revers | Bridled horse running to left with trailing rein and all within shallow incuse square |
| Écriture du revers | Greek |
| Légende du revers | Φ ΕRΑ ΙΟΝ |
| Tranche | |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
ND (460 BC - 440 BC) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 2470099700 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
Historical Context: This silver drachm from Pherai, Thessaly, dates to 460-440 BC, firmly within the Early Classical period. Following the Persian Wars, this era saw Greek city-states asserting their economic and political independence. Pherai was a significant power in southeastern Thessaly, strategically positioned near the Pagasetic Gulf. Its autonomous coinage reflects the city's considerable regional influence and economic vitality within the Thessalian confederacy, predating its later tyranny.
Artistry: Though the engraver is unknown, this drachm embodies the developing Early Classical style. Thessalian coinage of this period, including Pherai's, transitions from archaic stiffness to greater naturalism. The typical obverse features the dynamic forepart of a charging bull, a potent symbol of strength and fertility. The reverse often portrays the dignified head of a local nymph, perhaps Pheraios, rendered with idealized features and subtle detail, showcasing evolving artistic conventions.
Technical/Grading: Weighing 5.70 grams, this silver drachm conforms to the standard for its denomination and era. Critical points for assessing strike quality and wear include the bull's head, horns, and musculature on the obverse, and the nymph's hair and facial features on the reverse. Strong examples display sharp details in these areas, indicating minimal die wear. The flan is typically broad and somewhat irregular, common for early Classical minting. Centering varies, but superior pieces show the entire design clearly.