Stater

صادرکننده Knossos
سال 360 BC - 320 BC
نوع Standard circulation coin
ارزش Silver Stater (3)
واحد پول Drachm
ترکیب Silver
وزن 11.59 g
قطر 21 mm
ضخامت
شکل Round (irregular)
تکنیک Hammered
جهت Variable alignment ↺
حکاک(ها)
در گردش تا
مرجع(ها) SvoronosCr#17 var.
توضیحات روی سکه Head of female (Persephone?) left, wearing wreath of grain ears, triple-pendant earring, and pearl necklace.
خط روی سکه
نوشته‌های روی سکه
توضیحات پشت سکه Head of bull facing; NAΓ above, KNO-ΣI[ON] (retrograde) at sides; maeander pattern to outer left and right.
خط پشت سکه Greek, Greek (retrograde)
نوشته‌های پشت سکه NAΓ KNO-ΣI[ON]
لبه
ضرابخانه
تیراژ ضرب ND (360 BC - 320 BC) - -
شناسه Numisquare 1958354800
اطلاعات تکمیلی

Historical Context: Issued by the prominent Cretan city-state of Knossos between 360 and 320 BC, this silver stater circulated during the late Classical to early Hellenistic transition. Knossos, a significant power on Crete, maintained its economic and political autonomy, engaging in regional alliances and rivalries. The issuance of substantial silver coinage reflects a robust economy and active participation in Aegean trade networks, reinforcing the city's prestige and facilitating commerce.

Artistry: The artistic execution reflects the high standards of Late Classical Greek numismatic art. While a specific engraver is unrecorded, the craftsmanship suggests a skilled artisan, likely influenced by broader Greek trends, yet retaining distinctive local iconographic elements. Knossian coinage frequently features imagery tied to its rich mythical heritage. The obverse typically presents a finely rendered head, often of Persephone or Ariadne, while the reverse commonly depicts the intricate labyrinth, a star, or a related bull motif.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a substantial silver flan weighing 11.59 grams and measuring 21 millimeters, this stater exhibits typical characteristics. Key high-points for grading include delicate hair and facial details on the obverse, and precise lines of the labyrinth or musculature of the bull on the reverse. A well-struck example displays full, sharp relief on both sides, with minimal die wear or flan imperfections. Off-centering or minor strike weakness, particularly on the periphery, are common variations.

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