Catalogo
| Emittente | Salamis of Cyprus |
|---|---|
| Anno | 332 BC - 323 BC |
| Tipo | Standard circulation coin |
| Valore | Gold Stater (20) |
| Valuta | Drachm |
| Composizione | Gold |
| Peso | 8.58 g |
| Diametro | 18 mm |
| Spessore | |
| Forma | Round (irregular) |
| Tecnica | Hammered |
| Orientamento | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Incisore/i | |
| In circolazione fino al | |
| Riferimento/i | Price#3135 |
| Descrizione del dritto | Head of Athena right wearing Corinthian helmet with crest. |
|---|---|
| Scrittura del dritto | |
| Legenda del dritto | |
| Descrizione del rovescio | Nike standing left holding wreath in right hand, and stylis in her left hand; in left field quiver. |
| Scrittura del rovescio | Greek |
| Legenda del rovescio |
ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ (Translation: Alexander (III, the Great)) |
| Bordo | |
| Zecca | |
| Tiratura |
ND (332 BC - 323 BC) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 1558215510 |
| Informazioni aggiuntive |
Historical Context: This gold stater, issued from Salamis of Cyprus between 332 BC and 323 BC, marks Alexander the Great's consolidation of power after conquering the Achaemenid Empire. Cyprus, a vital island, came under Macedonian control. Issuing coinage "in the name of Alexander" from Salamis solidified his authority, standardized currency across his burgeoning empire, and facilitated economic integration. This coin serves as a tangible marker of Alexander's imperial reach during a rapid expansion period.
Artistry: The design adheres to early Hellenistic artistic conventions. The obverse features the head of Athena, facing right, wearing a Corinthian helmet adorned with a griffin, symbolizing martial prowess. The reverse depicts Nike, goddess of victory, standing left, holding a wreath and a stylis (ship's mast). This iconography, with its clear allusions to military triumph and divine favor, projected Alexander's power and legitimacy, disseminating consistent visual propaganda across his vast territories.
Technical/Grading: Struck in gold, weighing 8.58 grams and measuring 18 mm, this stater conforms to the established weight standard. High-points for wear or strike quality include Athena's helmet crest and facial features on the obverse, and Nike's delicate wings and drapery on the reverse. A well-struck example exhibits sharp details, especially on the griffin and wreath. While minor flan imperfections are common, strong luster and minimal die wear are highly desirable.