Catalogo
| Emittente | Byzantion (Thrace) |
|---|---|
| Anno | 150 BC - 120 BC |
| Tipo | Standard circulation coin |
| Valore | Gold Stater (20) |
| Valuta | Attic drachm |
| Composizione | Gold |
| Peso | 8.33 g |
| Diametro | 19 mm |
| Spessore | |
| Forma | Round (irregular) |
| Tecnica | Hammered |
| Orientamento | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Incisore/i | |
| In circolazione fino al | |
| Riferimento/i | SNG Berry#414 |
| Descrizione del dritto | Diademed head of the deified Alexander right, with horn of Ammon. |
|---|---|
| Scrittura del dritto | |
| Legenda del dritto | |
| Descrizione del rovescio | Athena Nikephoros seated left, left arm resting on shield, transverse spear in background; monogram to inner left, ΒΥ below throne, ornate trident in exergue |
| Scrittura del rovescio | Greek |
| Legenda del rovescio |
ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΛΥΣΙΜΑΧΟΥ ΒΥ |
| Bordo | |
| Zecca | Byzantion, modern-day Istanbul, Turkey |
| Tiratura | ND (150 BC - 120 BC) |
| ID Numisquare | 2735883218 |
| Informazioni aggiuntive |
Historical Context: This gold stater, struck by Byzantion (Thrace) between 150 and 120 BC, is a posthumous issue bearing Lysimachus's name and iconic imagery. Though Lysimachus died in 281 BC, his gold staters, featuring the deified Alexander, were internationally recognized currency. Byzantion, a vital Bosphorus trading hub, continued minting these types to facilitate commerce and maintain economic stability during the Late Hellenistic period, reflecting his enduring monetary influence.
Artistry: The coin exemplifies high standards of Late Hellenistic Greek numismatic art. The obverse features a masterfully rendered portrait of the deified Alexander the Great, wearing a diadem and Ammon's ram's horn, symbolizing his divine lineage. While the engraver remains anonymous, the execution is refined, blending idealized form and subtle realism. The reverse depicts Athena enthroned, holding Nike and a spear, elbow resting on a shield. Intricate drapery and careful composition showcase the engraver's skill.
Technical/Grading: This gold stater, weighing 8.33 grams and measuring 19 mm, adheres to the Lysimachean standard. Critical high-points include Alexander's hair and diadem knot on the obverse, and Athena's helmet, drapery, and Nike on the reverse. A strong, centered strike is essential for clarity. Collectors seek examples with full facial detail, minimal die wear, and a well-preserved flan, free from significant flaws, ensuring the integrity of this historically significant type, SNG Berry#414.