Catalog
| Issuer | Ambrakia |
|---|---|
| Year | 380 BC - 360 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Silver Stater (3) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 8.51 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Pegasi#74, Ravel Colts#116, McClean#5105, HGC 3.1#205 |
| Obverse description | Pegasos flying to left. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Head of Athena right, wearing Corinthian helmet decorated with A; in right field, APAΘΘOΣ and in left field, Aracthos seated on bucranium. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | APAΘΘOΣ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (380 BC - 360 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 6975695680 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver stater was issued by the Corinthian colony of Ambrakia between 380 and 360 BC, a period of dynamic shifts in Classical Greece. Strategically positioned in Epirus, Ambrakia maintained strong economic and cultural ties with Corinth, influencing its coinage. The minting of these staters affirmed Ambrakia's commercial importance and autonomy as a prominent polis, essential for regional trade and expressing its civic identity amidst evolving geopolitical landscapes.
Artistry: The stater's design follows the widespread Corinthian type. The obverse features a Pegasus with pointed wing, typically in a flying or prancing pose. The reverse invariably displays the head of Athena, wearing a Corinthian helmet, often with a prominent crest. While engravers are anonymous, the stylistic school is Classical Greek, showcasing the refined naturalism of the early 4th century BC, with subtle Ambrakian interpretations in Athena's features and helmet details.
Technical/Grading: This silver stater, weighing 8.51 grams and 20 millimeters, conforms to standard Corinthian-type specifications. Key high-points for evaluation include Pegasus's musculature and wing details, and Athena's helmet crest, eye, and facial features. A well-struck example exhibits full detail on Pegasus's wings and breast, and a clear rendering of Athena's profile. Centering, flan quality, and die wear are critical factors for assessing technical grade.