Hemidrachm Mantineia

Emitent Arcadian League
Rok 430 BC - 420 BC
Typ Standard circulation coin
Hodnota Hemidrachm (1/2)
Měna Drachm
Složení Silver
Hmotnost 2.92 g
Průměr 14.0 mm
Tloušťka
Tvar Round (irregular)
Technika Hammered, Incuse
Orientace
Rytci
V oběhu do
Reference Williams,Confederate#304 var., BCD Peloponnesos#1465, BMC Greek#45
Popis líce Zeus Lykaios seated left, holding scepter and thunderbolt. To the left an eagle flying right
Písmo líce
Opis líce
Popis rubu Head of Kallisto left, hair in sakkos and within incuse square
Písmo rubu Greek
Opis rubu A P K A
Hrana
Mincovna
Náklad ND (430 BC - 420 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 4643688500
Další informace

Historical Context: This silver hemidrachm from Mantineia, issued by the Arcadian League between 430 and 420 BC, falls within the tumultuous Peloponnesian War. Mantineia, a prominent Arcadian city-state, actively participated in the League, navigating complex alliances and rivalries, notably with Sparta. This coinage signifies the League's collective economic autonomy and its need for a stable currency to support military and trade operations, asserting its unified identity during widespread Greek conflict.

Artistry: While the engraver remains anonymous, this hemidrachm exemplifies the High Classical style of Greek numismatic art. Typical Arcadian League designs feature a local deity or nymph, rendered with the period's increasing naturalism and refined detail. Despite the small flan, master die-sinkers achieved idealized beauty and balanced composition, transcending archaic stiffness. The artistry effectively conveyed the solemnity and divine presence central to Arcadian religious iconography.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 2.92 grams and measuring 14.0 millimeters, this silver hemidrachm represents a carefully calibrated denomination. For grading, key high-points include the highest relief areas of any depicted hair, facial features, or drapery on the obverse, and central elements of the reverse device. Technical strike quality often varies; collectors should assess centering, strike sharpness, and flan quality. A well-struck example exhibits crisp details, indicative of a fresh die and skilled striking.

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