Stater - Mazaeus Tarsus
| Issuer | Cilicia, Satrapy of |
|---|---|
| Year | 361 BC - 334 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Silver Stater (3) |
| Currency | Drachm (550-330 BCE) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 10.68 g |
| Diameter | 24 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | SNG Levante#106 |
| Obverse description | The obverse of the coin features a delightful selection of the main symbols of good luck, such as the four-leaf clover, the gold fish, and the horseshoe, taking the scene, being depicted twice: as a stylized symbol and again as a fine insert. On the obverse, also the inscriptions: `REPUBLIQUE DU CAMEROUN` – the issuing country, `500 FRANCS CFA` – the face value, and `2024` – the year of issue. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Aramaic |
| Obverse lettering | REPUBLIQUE DU CAMEROUN 500 FRANCS CFA |
| Reverse description | The reverse of the coin features a horseshoe, vividly colored in bright blue shades and surrounded by cheery stylized stars. On top of it, a 24-karat Gold-plated filigree insert, making this coin even more exclusive. On the reverse of the coin, also the inscription: `GOOD LUCK` – a cheerful wish to its owner. |
| Reverse script | Aramaic |
| Reverse lettering | GOOD LUCK |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
2024 - Proof - 777 |
| Numisquare ID | 1589468370 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: This silver stater was issued by Mazaeus, a powerful satrap who governed Cilicia under Achaemenid Persian rule from 361 to 334 BC. His tenure represents a crucial period in Near Eastern history, bridging the late Achaemenid Empire and the dawn of the Hellenistic era. Mazaeus's coinage not only facilitated commerce in the strategically vital region of Cilicia but also served as a potent symbol of his considerable autonomy and influence within the Persian administrative structure, before his eventual surrender to Alexander the Great at Babylon.
Artistry: The artistry of this stater reflects the sophisticated Late Classical Greek style, likely executed by highly skilled Greek engravers employed in Tarsus. While specific engravers remain anonymous, their work demonstrates a masterful blend of Hellenic naturalism with local Near Eastern iconography. Typical designs for Mazaeus's Tarsus staters feature the seated deity Baal of Tarsus on the obverse, often holding a scepter and an eagle, symbolizing divine authority. The reverse frequently depicts a dynamic scene, such as a lion attacking a bull, accompanied by Aramaic legends identifying Mazaeus.
Technical/Grading: This silver stater, with a weight of 10.68 grams and a diameter of 24 millimeters, conforms to the established regional weight standards. For grading, critical high-points to assess include the intricate details of Baal's face, drapery, and the musculature of the lion and bull on the reverse. A superior strike will exhibit full detail on these raised areas, with clear legends and minimal evidence of die wear or planchet imperfections. The overall technical quality reflects the precision achievable through hand-hammered coinage during this advanced period.