Catalogue
| Émetteur | Ptolemaic Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Année | 134 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | Mnaeion (100) |
| Devise | Drachm (204 – 30 BC) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Poids | 27.61 g |
| Diamètre | 27 mm |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | SNG Copenhagen#322, SvoronosPt#1498 |
| Description de l’avers | Head of Arsinoë II (?) to right, wearing diadem and stephane, and with a lotos-tipped scepter behind her head. In field to left, Κ |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | Greek |
| Légende de l’avers | |
| Description du revers | Double cornucopiae bound with fillet, border of dots |
| Écriture du revers | Greek |
| Légende du revers | ΑΡΣΙΝΟΗΣ ΦΙΛΑΔΕΛΦΟΥ |
| Tranche | |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
ND (-134) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 4381103710 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
Historical Context: This gold Mnaeion (octodrachm), struck in 134 BC, dates to Ptolemy VIII Physcon's tumultuous reign. His rule saw significant dynastic conflict, particularly with his sister-wife Cleopatra II, and a period of exile from Alexandreia. Issuing such a substantial gold denomination, even amidst internal strife, underscored the Ptolemaic Kingdom's enduring economic power and the ruler's assertion of authority during a challenging era preceding its eventual decline.
Artistry: The coin exemplifies the Alexandrian Hellenistic stylistic school of Ptolemaic numismatics. Though the engraver is anonymous, the artistry is sophisticated. The obverse typically features an idealized, diademed portrait of Ptolemy I Soter, the dynasty's founder, projecting legitimacy. The reverse consistently displays the powerful Ptolemaic eagle, standing left on a thunderbolt, often with a cornucopia, symbolizing fertility and dominion. Its detailed execution reflects the high standards of the royal mint.
Technical/Grading: Struck from 27.61 grams of gold, 27 mm in diameter, this Mnaeion typically exhibits a broad, well-centered flan. Key high-points for strike and wear on the obverse include Ptolemy I's hair, diadem, and facial features. On the reverse, assess the eagle's breast, wing feathers, and thunderbolt details. A premium example displays a sharp strike across all devices, with minimal die wear, revealing intricate details of both the portrait and the dynastic emblem.