Æ - Scilurus Olbia

Emisor Kings of Skythia
Año 140 BC - 130 BC
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valor
Moneda
Composición Bronze
Peso 3.77 g
Diámetro 16 mm
Grosor
Forma Round (irregular)
Técnica Hammered
Orientación Medal alignment ↑↑
Grabador(es)
En circulación hasta
Referencia(s) Anokhin#578
Descripción del anverso Head of Apollo right, wearing laurel wreath.
Escritura del anverso
Leyenda del anverso
Descripción del reverso Kithara.
Escritura del reverso Greek
Leyenda del reverso BAΣIΛEΩΣ ΣΚΙΛΟΥΡΟΥ OΛ
(Translation: King Scilurus Olbia)
Canto
Casa de moneda
Tirada ND (140 BC - 130 BC) - -
ID de Numisquare 4901040390
Información adicional

Historical Context: This bronze Æ coin, issued between 140 and 130 BC, belongs to the powerful Scythian king Scilurus, who dominated the northern Black Sea region during the late 2nd century BC. His reign marked a period of significant Scythian influence over Greek cities like Olbia, a vital trading hub. Scilurus successfully asserted his authority, issuing coinage that underscored his sovereignty and the economic importance of his realm, reflecting a complex geopolitical landscape involving Scythia, Pontus, and the Bosporan Kingdom.

Artistry: While the engraver remains anonymous, typical for this era, the coin's artistry reflects a blend of Hellenistic numismatic traditions prevalent in the Black Sea region. Minted in Olbia, the design would likely feature a classical deity's head or a stylized portrait of Scilurus on the obverse, rendered with varying degrees of local craftsmanship. The reverse would typically carry a royal legend, such as "ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΣΚΙΛΟΥΡΟΥ", alongside a symbol pertinent to Olbia or Scythian culture, serving both as a marker of authority and a medium for local commerce.

Technical/Grading: This bronze issue, weighing 3.77 grams and measuring 16 millimeters, often exhibits characteristics common to ancient bronze coinage. High-points, such as the hair, nose, or prominent features of any portrait, are typically the first areas to show wear. The strike quality can vary, with common occurrences of minor off-centering or partial weakness, especially on the flan edges, which were often irregular. The small module suggests a functional currency, and the preservation of legends and finer details is crucial for assessing its overall grade and desirability.

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