Каталог
| Эмитент | Knossos |
|---|---|
| Год | 360 BC - 320 BC |
| Тип | Standard circulation coin |
| Номинал | Silver Stater (3) |
| Валюта | Drachm |
| Состав | Silver |
| Вес | 11.59 g |
| Диаметр | 21 mm |
| Толщина | |
| Форма | Round (irregular) |
| Техника | Hammered |
| Ориентация | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Гравёр(ы) | |
| В обращении до | |
| Каталожные номера | SvoronosCr#17 var. |
| Описание аверса | Head of female (Persephone?) left, wearing wreath of grain ears, triple-pendant earring, and pearl necklace. |
|---|---|
| Письменность аверса | |
| Надписи аверса | |
| Описание реверса | Head of bull facing; NAΓ above, KNO-ΣI[ON] (retrograde) at sides; maeander pattern to outer left and right. |
| Письменность реверса | Greek, Greek (retrograde) |
| Надписи реверса | NAΓ KNO-ΣI[ON] |
| Гурт | |
| Монетный двор | |
| Тираж |
ND (360 BC - 320 BC) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 1958354800 |
| Дополнительная информация |
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.