Catalog
| Issuer | Thourioi |
|---|---|
| Year | 350 BC - 300 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Stater (3) |
| Currency | As |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 7.79 g |
| Diameter | 23.0 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | HN XXXIII#1820, SNG ANS 2#1060 |
| Obverse description | Head of Athena to right, wearing crested Attic helmet adorned with Skylla hurling a stone to right. On the neckpiece, ΣΩ |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Greek |
| Obverse lettering | ΣΩ |
| Reverse description | Bull butting to right, his head lowered. Below, between the hind legs, monogram of ΑΡ, below to right, dove and in exergue, fish to right |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | ΘΟΥΡΙΩΝ ΣΩΓ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (350 BC - 300 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 4948756450 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The Stater of Thourioi, struck 350-300 BC, reflects a period of significant geopolitical flux for Greek cities in Magna Graecia. Thourioi, a prominent southern Italian city, faced increasing pressure from indigenous Italic tribes and the nascent Roman Republic. Despite these challenges, the city maintained economic vitality through fertile lands and maritime trade. This coinage attests to Thourioi's enduring autonomy and cultural identity amidst regional conflicts, signifying its continued prosperity during the late Classical era.
Artistry: This coin exemplifies the refined artistry of Late Classical Greek numismatics. The obverse typically features a helmeted Athena, often with a Scylla or griffin on her helmet, rendered with powerful serenity. The reverse consistently depicts a charging bull, symbolizing the Thurian plain's fertility and agricultural base. While engravers are often anonymous, the stylistic school emphasizes high relief, dynamic composition, and meticulous anatomical detail, especially in the bull's musculature and Athena's intricate helmet.
Technical/Grading: This silver stater, weighing 7.79 grams and measuring 23.0 millimeters, typically exhibits a robust strike on a broad flan. Key high-points for wear include Athena's helmet crest, ornamentation, and facial features, plus the bull's head, horns, and shoulder musculature. Well-preserved examples show sharp detail in these areas. Premium specimens feature strong centering, full types, and minimal planchet flaws, reflecting careful production standards.