Nomos - Ale..., Eu..., and Z...

Historical Context: The Nomos from Herakleia, issued 281-278 BC, situates itself at the crucible of the Pyrrhic War. As a prominent Achaean colony in Lucania and a steadfast ally of Tarentum, Herakleia's coinage during this specific period reflects the profound political and military pressures exerted by Pyrrhus of Epirus's campaign against Rome. The presence of magistrate names, such as Alex-, Eu-, and Zo- (likely abbreviated forms), underscores the city's continued civic administration and financial mobilization amidst intense external conflict, almost certainly funding its contributions to the anti-Roman coalition.

Artistry: Artistically, this nomos exemplifies the sophisticated Hellenistic style prevalent in Magna Graecia during the early 3rd century BC. While specific engraver signatures are not commonly attributed to Herakleia for this precise issue, the die-cutters demonstrate a mastery akin to their Tarentine counterparts. The obverse depiction of Athena, typically helmeted, and the reverse portrayal of Herakles, often wrestling the Nemean lion or resting, display a refined naturalism in drapery, anatomical detail, and facial expression, influenced by contemporary Greek sculptural traditions rather than individual signatures.

Technical/Grading: For grading this 6.65g, 21mm silver nomos, key points include the integrity of Athena's Corinthian helmet crest and the intricate details of the griffin or Skylla on its bowl. On the reverse, Herakles' musculature, the definition of the lion's scalp, and the clarity of the magistrate's names are paramount. A full, centered strike is crucial, ensuring all elements, particularly the helmet's peak and Herakles' extremities (club, hands, feet), are present and sharply rendered. Original surfaces and an attractive cabinet tone significantly enhance desirability.