Obol - Eukratides I

Đơn vị phát hành Kings of Baktria
Năm 170 BC - 145 BC
Loại Standard circulation coin
Mệnh giá Obol (⅙)
Tiền tệ Drachm (305-15BC)
Chất liệu Silver
Trọng lượng 0.72 g
Đường kính 11.0 mm
Độ dày
Hình dạng Round (irregular)
Kỹ thuật Hammered
Hướng
Nghệ nhân khắc
Lưu hành đến
Tài liệu tham khảo SNG ANS 9#496
Mô tả mặt trước Diademed and draped bust of Eukratides to right, wearing Macedonian helmet adorned with bull’s horn and ear
Chữ viết mặt trước
Chữ khắc mặt trước
Mô tả mặt sau The two caps of the Diokouroi, each with a palm branch beside it. Below, monogram of ΗΜΑ
Chữ viết mặt sau Greek
Chữ khắc mặt sau ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΕΥΚΡΑΤΙΔΟΥ ΗΜΑ
(Translation: Of king Eukratides)
Cạnh
Xưởng đúc
Số lượng đúc ND (170 BC - 145 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 1048776960
Thông tin bổ sung

Historical Context: This silver obol, issued by Eukratides I (170-145 BC), offers concise insight into a pivotal Graeco-Bactrian king. Eukratides I, a formidable usurper, expanded his empire across Central Asia, battling rival Hellenistic states and nomadic tribes. This small denomination reflects the broad economic and administrative reach of his realm. It represents a tangible link to a monarch whose significant military achievements ultimately coincided with the Graeco-Bactrian kingdom's decline.

Artistry: The artistry on this obol, characteristic of the Graeco-Bactrian school, exemplifies enduring Hellenistic tradition. The anonymous engraver adhered to classical Greek ideals. The obverse typically features a powerful, often helmeted, bust of Eukratides I, rendered with remarkable realism and regal authority despite its diminutive size. The reverse commonly depicts the Dioskouroi, Castor and Pollux, on horseback, a popular motif symbolizing military valor and divine protection.

Technical/Grading: As a small silver obol (0.72 gg, 11.0 mmmm), technical strike quality is crucial for assessment. High-points for wear or strike weakness on the obverse include the helmet crest and facial details. On the reverse, the heads of the Dioskouroi and their horses are critical. Incomplete strikes, off-centering, or minor flan imperfections are common for such denominations. A well-preserved example exhibits a strong strike, clear details on both sides, and minimal flan irregularities, allowing the intricate design to be appreciated.

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