Catalog
| Issuer | Knidos |
|---|---|
| Year | 250 BC - 150 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Siglos (1) |
| Currency | Persian siglos |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 5.42 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | HN Online#2733, Nanteuil#559 |
| Obverse description | Head of Helios three-quarters facing right. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | ΚΝΙ above forepart of roaring lion right with one paw extended; below, magistrate name; to left, prow. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | ΚΝΙ ΧΡΥΣΑΝΩΡ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (250 BC - 150 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 7179535100 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context:The Siglos of Khrysanor from Knidos, dated 250-150 BC, dates to the Hellenistic period. Knidos, a prominent Carian city, navigated geopolitical shifts post-Alexander, balancing autonomy against larger regional powers. "Khrysanor" likely denotes a significant local dynast or magistrate whose authority underpinned this issue. The "Siglos" denomination, a Hellenistic silver standard of 5.42 grams, suggests continued regional trade practices or a deliberate economic strategy by Knidos amidst shifting alliances.
Artistry:While the engraver is anonymous, typical for the period, this Knidian Siglos reflects the sophisticated Hellenistic stylistic school. Knidos, renowned for its artistic heritage, employed highly skilled die-cutters. The design, though unspecified, would feature finely detailed depictions characteristic of the era: a deity, a portrait, or a civic emblem. Hellenistic numismatic art prioritized realism, dynamic composition, and intricate detail, showcasing the city's cultural prestige and issuer's authority.
Technical/Grading:This silver Siglos, weighing 5.42 grams, adheres closely to the denomination standard, indicating careful minting. For grading, critical high-points include hair, facial features (if a portrait), or prominent musculature/drapery (if a figure), as these areas show wear first. A strong strike reveals crisp details, sharp lines, and full rendering of design elements, indicating optimal die pressure and well-prepared flans. Centering, die alignment, and silver purity are crucial indicators of overall strike quality.