Catalogo
| Emittente | Armenia, Kingdom of |
|---|---|
| Anno | 13-15 |
| Tipo | Standard circulation coin |
| Valore | 8 Chalkon (⅙) |
| Valuta | Drachm |
| Composizione | Bronze |
| Peso | 12.23 g |
| Diametro | 25 mm |
| Spessore | |
| Forma | Round (irregular) |
| Tecnica | Hammered |
| Orientamento | |
| Incisore/i | |
| In circolazione fino al | |
| Riferimento/i | Kovacs#187 |
| Descrizione del dritto | Bust of Erato facing right, draped and diademed |
|---|---|
| Scrittura del dritto | Greek |
| Legenda del dritto |
ΒΑ ΕΡΑΤ (Translation: Queen Erato(?)) |
| Descrizione del rovescio | City gate and walls of Artaxata with six towers, in left and right field above, Ε Γ (= year 3). |
| Scrittura del rovescio | Greek |
| Legenda del rovescio | |
| Bordo | |
| Zecca | |
| Tiratura |
ND (13-15) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 4323544020 |
| Informazioni aggiuntive |
Historical Context: The Octachalkon of Queen Erato, dated to 13-15 AD, represents a fascinating, albeit brief, period in the tumultuous history of the Kingdom of Armenia. Erato, a client queen often installed and deposed by Roman or Parthian powers, briefly returned to the throne, possibly as a co-ruler, during this timeframe. Her coinage from Artaxata, the Armenian capital, underscores a fleeting assertion of local authority amidst the constant geopolitical struggle between the Roman and Parthian empires for control over the region, making her issues historically significant.
Artistry: While the specific engraver remains anonymous, this Octachalkon exhibits characteristics of the Hellenistic stylistic school prevalent in Armenian numismatics. The obverse typically features a dignified portrait of Queen Erato, often diademed, reflecting a blend of Hellenistic royal iconography with local sensibilities. The reverse design would commonly depict a dynastic emblem, a local deity, or an inscription, all rendered with a certain degree of classical influence, yet maintaining a distinct Armenian identity in its overall execution.
Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze, this Octachalkon measures 25 mm and weighs 12.23 grams, a substantial module for the denomination. For well-preserved examples, the high-points of the obverse portrait, such as the queen's diadem, hair, and facial features, would exhibit strong detail. The strike quality, typical of regional bronze issues, can vary, but premium pieces show a full, centered strike with clear legends and reverse motifs, often retaining some original surface patina indicative of careful preservation.