Catalog
| Issuer | Phaistos (Crete (ancient)) |
|---|---|
| Year | 320 BC - 300 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Stater (2) |
| Currency | Aeginetic drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 11.47 g |
| Diameter | 28 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | SvoronosCr#65 |
| Obverse description | Herakles standing in fighting attitude to right, wearing Nemean lion skin, seizing with his left hand one of the heads of the Lernean Hydra, and with his right hand preparing to strike with club; by right foot, crab on exergual line. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Bull butting to right on wavy exergual line. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | ΦAIΣTIΩN |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (320 BC - 300 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 8818311260 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver stater, issued by the ancient Cretan city-state of Phaistos (320-300 BC), dates to the early Hellenistic period. Following Alexander the Great's death, Crete maintained independence amidst the Diadochi Wars. Phaistos flourished as an important regional center, with robust trade and high demand for mercenary services. This high-value currency facilitated economic transactions and asserted civic identity during a dynamic era.
Artistry: The SvoronosCr#65 design exemplifies sophisticated early Hellenistic numismatic art. While no specific engraver is recorded, the stylistic school blends late Classical idealism with emerging Hellenistic realism. The obverse typically features a powerful Herakles, often facing right, his head adorned with the Nemean lion's skin. The reverse commonly displays a majestic bull, frequently accompanied by an eagle or star, a motif associated with local Cretan myths like Zeus's abduction of Europa, reflecting Phaistos's rich cultural heritage.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this 11.47 gram, 28 millimeter stater indicates a substantial, high-value denomination, likely on a local or Aeginetan standard. For optimal grading, collectors seek a strong strike revealing full details on Herakles's facial features, lion's mane, bull's musculature, and horns. High-points include Herakles's brow and nose, and the bull's head and back. Well-centered examples with minimal die wear and a complete flan are highly prized, showcasing the full artistry and technical prowess of the Phaistian mint.