Katalog
| Emittent | Pherai |
|---|---|
| Jahr | 369 BC - 358 BC |
| Typ | Standard circulation coin |
| Nennwert | Silver Stater (3) |
| Währung | Drachm |
| Material | Silver |
| Gewicht | 11.55 g |
| Durchmesser | 22.5 mm |
| Dicke | |
| Form | Round (irregular) |
| Prägetechnik | Hammered |
| Ausrichtung | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Stempelschneider | |
| Im Umlauf bis | |
| Referenz(en) | BCD Thessaly I#1309, Jameson#1106, HGC 4#576 |
| Aversbeschreibung | Head of Ennodia facing, turned slightly to right, wearing pearl diadem, grape-cluster earring and plain necklace and to the left, a torch |
|---|---|
| Aversschrift | |
| Averslegende | |
| Reversbeschreibung | Alexander riding horse galloping to right, the reins in his left hand and thrusting lance downwards with his right, wearing cavalry helmet, cuirass, boots and with his sheathed sword on a baldric around his chest. On the horse’s rump a double ax and below it a double axe |
| Reversschrift | Greek |
| Reverslegende | Α Λ Ε ΞΑ Ν ΔΡΟΥ |
| Rand | |
| Prägestätte | |
| Auflage |
ND (369 BC - 358 BC) - - |
| Numisquare-ID | 6898155820 |
| Zusätzliche Informationen |
Historical Context: This silver stater was issued by Alexander of Pherai, the tyrannical ruler of Thessaly, between 369 and 358 BC. His reign marked a period of significant, albeit brutal, expansion for Pherai, as he sought to dominate the Thessalian League and extend his influence across central Greece. These coins served as a potent symbol of his authority and economic power, financing his military campaigns and solidifying his control during a turbulent era in the Greek world.
Artistry: While the engraver remains anonymous, this stater exemplifies the refined Late Classical Greek style prevalent in Thessalian coinage. The obverse typically features a finely rendered head of a local nymph or goddess, such as Hecate or Persephone, often depicted in profile with an elaborate coiffure. The reverse commonly displays a dynamic Thessalian horseman, or a free-ranging horse, galloping right, a powerful motif reflecting the region's famed cavalry and equestrian traditions. The design conveys local identity and Alexander's power.
Technical/Grading: Struck from 11.55 grams of silver with a diameter of 22.5 mm, this stater typically exhibits a strong strike, though centering can vary. Key high-points for wear or strike assessment include the hair and facial features of the obverse goddess, and the horse's head, mane, and rider's torso on the reverse. The flan quality is generally good, reflecting the consistent silver purity. Minor die wear might be present on later issues within the series, but overall examples often retain excellent detail.