Hemidrachm

Emittente Lakedaimon
Anno 85 BC
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valore Hemidrachm (1/2)
Valuta Drachm
Composizione Silver
Peso 2.34 g
Diametro 14.0 mm
Spessore
Forma Round (irregular)
Tecnica Hammered
Orientamento
Incisore/i
In circolazione fino al
Riferimento/i BCD Peloponnesos#863
Descrizione del dritto Laureate head of Zeus facing right
Scrittura del dritto
Legenda del dritto
Descrizione del rovescio Monogram of the Achaian League with the pilei of the Dioskouroi flanking, monogram above, EY below and all within wreath
Scrittura del rovescio Greek
Legenda del rovescio
Bordo
Zecca
Tiratura ND (-85) - -
ID Numisquare 2833877330
Informazioni aggiuntive

Historical Context: This silver hemidrachm, issued by Lakedaimon (Sparta) in 85 BC, dates to a period when the city, though under Roman suzerainty, maintained its status as a civitas libera. Following the Achaean War in 146 BC, Sparta emphasized ancient traditions. The issuance of its own coinage was a significant assertion of civic identity and sovereignty, serving local economic needs and reinforcing the city's unique heritage in a politically altered Hellenistic world.

Artistry: The design exemplifies Late Hellenistic numismatic artistry, blending classical tradition with naturalism. The obverse typically features a diademed head of Lykourgos, the legendary lawgiver, rendered with dignified portraiture reflecting Spartan reverence. The reverse commonly depicts an eagle standing left, often with a civic monogram, symbolizing Zeus and divine protection. The anonymous engraver worked within a stylistic school prioritizing clear, symbolic representations, maintaining a conservative aesthetic aligned with Spartan values.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 2.34 grams and measuring 14.0 millimeters, this hemidrachm is a standard small silver denomination. For the Lykourgos obverse, critical high-points for wear include the hair, diadem, nose, and chin. On the reverse, the eagle's head, breast feathers, and talons are most susceptible to flattening. A well-struck example exhibits full detail, though minor off-centering or slight die wear are common for issues of this period, reflecting contemporary production methods.

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