Hemidrachm Corinth

Đơn vị phát hành Achaean League
Năm 160 BC - 146 BC
Loại Standard circulation coin
Mệnh giá 1/2 Drachm
Tiền tệ Drachm
Chất liệu Silver
Trọng lượng 2.38 g
Đường kính 16.5 mm
Độ dày
Hình dạng Round (irregular)
Kỹ thuật Hammered
Hướng
Nghệ nhân khắc
Lưu hành đến
Tài liệu tham khảo BCD Peloponnesos#73.2, HGC 4#1920
Mô tả mặt trước Laureate head of Zeus facing left
Chữ viết mặt trước
Chữ khắc mặt trước
Mô tả mặt sau Pegasos flying right above the monogram of the Achaian League with the letters K above monogram, A Σ flanking and all within laurel wreath
Chữ viết mặt sau Greek
Chữ khắc mặt sau Κ Α Σ
Cạnh
Xưởng đúc
Số lượng đúc ND (160 BC - 146 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 3226138370
Thông tin bổ sung

Historical Context: This silver hemidrachm, issued by the Achaean League (160-146 BC), marks a critical era. The League unified much of the Peloponnese, including Corinth, under a common economic system. This coinage facilitated inter-city trade and underscored the League's sovereignty amidst increasing Roman intervention. The date range signifies the League's final, defiant stand against Rome, culminating in the Achaean War and the subsequent Roman annexation of Greece. It is a tangible artifact of a waning independence.

Artistry: Specific engravers for these federal issues are unknown, but the coin’s design reflects the Hellenistic stylistic school, blending classical ideals with standardized production. The obverse typically features a laureate head of Zeus, rendered with dignified, generalized portrayal emphasizing divine authority. The reverse prominently displays the Achaean League monogram (AX) alongside a city-specific symbol, likely a Corinthian Pegasus or Qoppa (Ϙ), signifying Corinth's membership within the League's unified monetary system.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this hemidrachm weighs 2.38 grams and measures 16.5 millimeters, consistent with its denomination. High-points for wear or strike include Zeus's hair and forehead on the obverse, and the raised elements of the League monogram and city symbol on the reverse. Achaean League coinage typically exhibits a broad flan and reasonably centered strike, though minor off-centering or light striking on peripheral details due to die wear are not uncommon. A strong strike ensures full detail on Zeus's features and clear reverse devices.

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