Siglos - Euelthon

Emittente Salamis of Cyprus
Anno 530 BC - 500 BC
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valore Siglos (1)
Valuta Drachm
Composizione Silver
Peso 11.6 g
Diametro 20 mm
Spessore
Forma Round (irregular)
Tecnica Hammered
Orientamento
Incisore/i
In circolazione fino al
Riferimento/i BMC Greek#22, SilCoinCy#A7312
Descrizione del dritto Recumbent ram facing left.
Scrittura del dritto
Legenda del dritto
Descrizione del rovescio Egyptian ankh symbol with two concentric circles, one solid and one dotted. Cypriot syllabic sign (pa-) within the circle of the ankh and four other signs in the corners of the incuse square.
Scrittura del rovescio Cypriot
Legenda del rovescio ###to_edit###
Bordo
Zecca
Tiratura ND (530 BC - 500 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 4088214730
Informazioni aggiuntive

Historical Context: This Siglos was issued by Salamis of Cyprus under King Euelthon (c. 530-500 BC). Euelthon was instrumental in introducing coinage to Salamis, making these among the earliest indigenous issues from the island. During this Archaic period, Salamis flourished as a major trade center, maintaining autonomy despite Persian suzerainty. The adoption of coinage underscored Salamis's economic prowess and political identity, utilizing the regional Persic weight standard.

Artistry: The artistic execution reflects the Archaic Greek style, characteristic of Cypriot numismatics, blending Hellenic and Near Eastern influences. The obverse typically features a finely rendered recumbent ram, a symbol of fertility and prosperity, depicted with robust, stylized form. The reverse often presents an incuse square containing an ankh, the Egyptian symbol for life, or a geometric pattern, sometimes with the king's name in Cypriot syllabic script, illustrating the era's cultural syncretism.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver to 11.6 grams and 20 mm, this coin adheres to the Persic standard. Typical high-points for wear or strike weakness include the ram's head, horns, and details within the ankh on the reverse. Early Archaic minting often resulted in some off-centering or uneven strike pressure, leading to areas of flatness. However, well-preserved examples showcase sharp details, good metal quality, and a generally broad flan for the type.

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