Stater - Mazaeus

Emittent Cilicia, Satrapy of
Jahr 361 BC - 334 BC
Typ Standard circulation coin
Nennwert Silver Stater (3)
Währung Drachm (550-330 BCE)
Material Silver
Gewicht 10.88 g
Durchmesser 23 mm
Dicke
Form Round (irregular)
Prägetechnik Hammered
Ausrichtung Variable alignment ↺
Stempelschneider
Im Umlauf bis
Referenz(en) SNG France#422 , Jameson#1621
Aversbeschreibung Coat of arms of Chad with the inscriptions “REPUBLIQUE DU TCHAD” - the issuing country, “3000 FRANCS CFA” - the nominal value and “999/1000 FINE GOLD” - the fineness of the gold
Aversschrift Aramaic
Averslegende REPUBLIQUE DU TCHAD COAT OF ARMS 3.000 FRANCS CFA 999/1000 FINE GOLD
Reversbeschreibung Coin shows a blossoming rose, the queen of flowers, surrounded by four delicate leaves of different sizes
Reversschrift
Reverslegende
Rand
Prägestätte
Auflage 2023 - Proof - 50 000
Numisquare-ID 1065179940
Zusätzliche Informationen

Historical Context: This silver stater was issued by Mazaeus, a pivotal satrap of Cilicia from 361 to 334 BC, under the late Achaemenid Persian Empire. His extensive coinage reflects significant satrapal autonomy for local trade and administration. This coin is a crucial artifact from Persian hegemony's final decades in Asia Minor, illustrating a sophisticated monetary system under local authority prior to Alexander’s conquests.

Artistry: The design exemplifies the Greco-Persian artistic synthesis prevalent in Cilicia. Though the engraver is anonymous, the stylistic school draws from Classical Greek traditions in figure rendering. The obverse typically features Baal Tarz, Tarsus's principal deity, seated on a throne, holding a scepter and grain ears—a powerful local symbol. The reverse often depicts a dynamic scene, like a lion attacking a stag, a motif with deep Near Eastern roots, executed with Hellenic precision.

Technical/Grading: Key high-points for wear include Baal’s facial features, headdress, and drapery folds on the obverse. On the reverse, the lion’s musculature, mane, and the prey's antlers are critical areas. Technically, these staters are typically struck on broad, often irregular flans. While centering varies, well-struck examples display full designs. Die wear is common; overall strike quality is generally robust, indicative of a prolific minting operation.

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