Stater In the name of Alexander III

Historical Context: This gold stater, struck at Lampsakos in Mysia circa 230 BC, highlights the enduring legacy of Alexander the Great. Long after his death, cities like Lampsakos continued issuing coinage in his name, utilizing his established types and the Attic weight standard. This practice facilitated international trade and asserted economic standing amidst the fragmented Hellenistic world. Such issues underscore Alexander’s lasting impact as a symbol of authority and a guarantor of monetary stability, even for autonomous cities.

Artistry: The design adheres to iconic prototypes from Alexander’s reign, reflecting the Hellenistic stylistic school. The obverse depicts the head of Herakles, often interpreted as an idealized portrait of Alexander, wearing the Nemean lion-skin headdress. The reverse features Zeus Aëtophoros, enthroned, holding an eagle and a scepter, with the legend “ALEXANDROU.” While no specific engraver is known, the craftsmanship demonstrates the Lampsakene mint’s skill, maintaining the high artistic standards of the era.

Technical/Grading: Struck in gold, this 8.39-gram, 19-millimeter stater conforms to the Attic standard. Key high-points for preservation include the lion’s muzzle and Herakles’s forehead on the obverse, and Zeus’s face, torso, eagle, and scepter on the reverse, indicating strike quality. A well-centered strike with even pressure ensures full rendering of all design elements, reflecting the mint’s technical proficiency and enhancing the coin's numismatic grade.