کاتالوگ
| توضیحات روی سکه | Head of the nymph Chalkis to right, wearing a triple-pendant earring and a pearl necklace, her hair rolled at the sides and back. |
|---|---|
| خط روی سکه | |
| نوشتههای روی سکه | |
| توضیحات پشت سکه | Eagle flying to right with open wings, devouring snake held in its talons; to right, grain wreath. |
| خط پشت سکه | Greek |
| نوشتههای پشت سکه | XAΛ |
| لبه | |
| ضرابخانه | |
| تیراژ ضرب |
ND (290 BC - 271 BC) - - |
| شناسه Numisquare | 6772646400 |
| اطلاعات تکمیلی |
Historical Context: This silver drachm from Chalkis, struck between 290 BC and 271 BC, emerges from a pivotal period in the early Hellenistic world. Following the death of Alexander the Great, Chalkis, a strategically vital city on Euboia, found itself a key player in the ongoing conflicts of the Diadochi and the rise of the Antigonid dynasty in Macedon, particularly under Antigonos Gonatas. Its geographic position made it a crucial naval base and a contested prize, influencing its economic stability and political autonomy. This coinage likely facilitated local commerce and regional trade, underscoring Chalkis's enduring importance amidst shifting alliances and power struggles across the Aegean.
Artistry: The artistic style of this drachm is characteristic of the early Hellenistic period, blending late Classical elegance with emerging dynamism. While the engraver remains anonymous, the craftsmanship reflects a skilled hand. The obverse typically features a finely rendered head, often a nymph (perhaps Chalkis or Arethusa), idealized yet with subtle expressive qualities. Her hair would be intricately styled, possibly adorned with a wreath or diadem. The reverse commonly depicts an eagle, a powerful symbol, perhaps standing on a thunderbolt, representing divine authority and strength. The overall design would balance dignified portraiture with robust animal symbolism, typical of Hellenistic numismatic art.
Technical/Grading: This silver drachm, weighing 3.67 grams and measuring 17 millimeters, adheres to a common Hellenistic weight standard. For optimal grading, collectors seek a strong, centered strike that fully renders the high-points of both dies. On the obverse, critical details include the nymph's facial features (eyes, nose, lips) and the intricate strands of her hair. On the reverse, the eagle's breast feathers, wing articulation, and talons are key indicators of strike quality. While minor flan irregularities or slight off-centering are not uncommon for the period, a well-preserved example will exhibit sharp details and minimal die wear, reflecting the technical skill of the mint.