Catalog
| Issuer | Tarentum |
|---|---|
| Year | 240 BC - 228 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Nomos (2) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 6.54 g |
| Diameter | 20.0 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | HN Italy#1058, SNG ANS 1#1258-1259, SNG France#2058, HGC 1#904, Vlasto#955-958 |
| Obverse description | Armored cavalryman, riding horse moving to left, raising his right hand in salute and turning his bearded and laureate head to face the viewer. In upper field to right, monogram and pileus |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Greek |
| Obverse lettering | ΞΕ ΝΟΚΡ ΑΤ ΗΣ ΤΚΡ |
| Reverse description | Phalanthos, nude, riding dolphin to left, his body turned slightly back to right, holding a trident over his right shoulder in his right hand and holding his drapery in his upraised left. To right, monogram of ΣΩ and below, waves and cuttlefish |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | ΤΑΡΑΣ ΣΩ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (240 BC - 228 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1888696470 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver nomos, issued by Tarentum between 240 and 228 BC, marks a critical period for the leading Greek polis in Magna Graecia. Tarentum navigated increasing Roman hegemony following the First Punic War, its independence gradually waning despite continued economic vitality. The name Xenokrates likely denotes a prominent monetary magistrate responsible for this issue, reflecting internal administration amidst external pressures. This coin serves as a tangible record of Tarentum's final decades as a sovereign Greek power in southern Italy.
Artistry: The artistic execution of this nomos exemplifies the sophisticated Hellenistic style of Tarentine mints. Xenokrates is widely interpreted as an engraver's signature, indicating a master craftsman. Tarentine coinage is renowned for dynamic compositions and detailed rendering of the ubiquitous horseman and Taras-on-dolphin motifs. The obverse typically features Taras, the city's mythical founder, astride a dolphin, often holding attributes. The reverse commonly depicts a Tarentine warrior on horseback, showcasing the city's equestrian tradition and military prowess.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this nomos weighs 6.54 grams and measures 20.0 millimeters, consistent with the didrachm standard. Key high-points for wear and strike quality include Taras's head and torso, the dolphin's head, and the horse's head and rider's upper body. A premium example exhibits a full, centered strike, preserving intricate details of the high-relief design. Minor flan imperfections, off-centering, or light striking are not uncommon due to the manual minting process. Surface quality and luster are also crucial grading considerations.