Katalog
| Emitent | Herakleia (Lucania) |
|---|---|
| Rok | 340 BC - 330 BC |
| Typ | Standard circulation coin |
| Hodnota | Stater (3) |
| Měna | As |
| Složení | Silver |
| Hmotnost | 7.92 g |
| Průměr | 23 mm |
| Tloušťka | |
| Tvar | Round (irregular) |
| Technika | Hammered |
| Orientace | |
| Rytci | Atha... |
| V oběhu do | |
| Reference | HN XXXIII#1384, SNG ANS 2#76, BMC Gr/It#33, GCV#391 |
| Popis líce | Head of Athena to right, wearing a pendant earring, a simple necklace and a Corinthian helmet adorned with Skylla. Behind neck, Κ |
|---|---|
| Písmo líce | Greek |
| Opis líce | ˫ΗΡΑΚΛΗΙΩΝ Κ |
| Popis rubu | Youthful Herakles standing facing, nude but for a strap across his chest and with the lion skin over his right arm, holding a bow and arrow in his right hand and a club in his left. To left, above, one-handeled jug and to left, in outer field, ΑΘΑ |
| Písmo rubu | Greek |
| Opis rubu | ˫ΗΡΑΚΛΗΙΩΝ ΑΘΑ |
| Hrana | |
| Mincovna | |
| Náklad |
ND (340 BC - 330 BC) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 3290444290 |
| Další informace |
Historical Context: This silver stater, struck by Herakleia in Lucania between 340 and 330 BC, marks a pivotal era for Magna Graecia. A prominent Achaean colony and key member of the Italiote League, Herakleia faced mounting pressure from indigenous Lucanian tribes and broader regional instability. This substantial coinage reflects the city's economic strength and its efforts to maintain independence and influence, navigating complex alliances and military threats preceding the Hellenistic age.
Artistry: The coin's design exemplifies the sophisticated late classical artistic tradition of Magna Graecia. While specific engravers are rarely identified, the quality points to master craftsmen. The obverse typically features Herakles, often nude, dynamically wrestling the Nemean Lion or as a powerful head. The reverse consistently depicts Athena, the city's patron goddess, standing majestically, holding a shield and spear, sometimes crowning herself. Detailed musculature of Herakles and intricate drapery of Athena are hallmarks, showcasing naturalism and heroic idealization.
Technical/Grading: This silver stater, weighing 7.92 grams and measuring 23 millimeters, adheres to the standard Herakleian weight. Critical high-points for preservation include Herakles' musculature and the lion's mane on the obverse. On the reverse, Athena's helmet crest, facial features, and intricate drapery folds are key. A well-struck example exhibits sharp, full details across the design, ideally on a broad, well-centered flan. Strike quality is paramount for appreciating the artistry, though minor die wear or off-centering can be observed.