Catálogo
| Emisor | Ainianes |
|---|---|
| Año | 360 BC - 350 BC |
| Tipo | Standard circulation coin |
| Valor | Hemidrachm (1/2) |
| Moneda | Drachm |
| Composición | Silver |
| Peso | 2.81 g |
| Diámetro | |
| Grosor | |
| Forma | Round (irregular) |
| Técnica | Hammered |
| Orientación | |
| Grabador(es) | |
| En circulación hasta | |
| Referencia(s) | BCD Thessaly I#1011, BCD Thessaly I#1012, SNG Munich 12#1 |
| Descripción del anverso | Laureate and bearded head of Zeus to left |
|---|---|
| Escritura del anverso | |
| Leyenda del anverso | |
| Descripción del reverso | The hero Phemios, nude but for a belt holding a short sword in a scabbard and a chlamys draped over his shoulders and his left arm, standing left, facing front with his head turned to right, hurling a javelin with his right hand and holding his petasos, as if it were a small shield, with his left. On the ground line between his feet, sideways Φ |
| Escritura del reverso | Greek |
| Leyenda del reverso | ΑΙΝΙΑΝΩΝ Φ |
| Canto | |
| Casa de moneda | |
| Tirada |
ND (360 BC - 350 BC) - - |
| ID de Numisquare | 8145043370 |
| Información adicional |
Historical Context: The Hemidrachm of Hypata, issued by the Ainianes between 360 and 350 BC, reflects a period of fluctuating power dynamics in Thessaly. Following the decline of Theban hegemony and prior to the ascendance of Macedon under Philip II, numerous Thessalian city-states and tribal federations, including the Ainianes centered at Hypata, asserted their autonomy through coinage. This silver hemidrachm served as a vital medium for local commerce and military payments, underscoring the Ainianes' independent political and economic standing amidst regional rivalries.
Artistry: This coinage belongs to the Late Classical Greek stylistic school, characterized by a move towards greater naturalism and dynamism. While specific engravers for such tribal issues are rarely identified, the artistry typically reflects local religious and cultural identity. Common designs for Ainianes hemidrachms of this era feature the head of Zeus Laphystios on the obverse, rendered with dignified realism, and a depiction of the local hero Aineias or an eagle/boar on the reverse, often accompanied by the ethnic inscription. The artistic execution aimed for a balance of divine majesty and local symbolism.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver with a weight of 2.81 grams, this hemidrachm exhibits the typical fabric of the period. For an ideal strike, high-points on the obverse, such as the forehead and laurel wreath of Zeus, would show full detail and strong relief. On the reverse, the head and musculature of the hero, or the plumage of an eagle, would be sharply defined. Technical strike quality varies, but well-preserved examples demonstrate good centering, minimal die wear, and a consistent strike, preserving the intricate details and overall artistic intent of the dies.