Stater - Pharnaces I Amisos

Emitent Kings of Pontos
Rok 200 BC - 169 BC
Typ Standard circulation coin
Hodnota Gold Stater (20)
Měna Drachm
Složení Gold
Hmotnost 8.47 g
Průměr 19.5 mm
Tloušťka
Tvar Round (irregular)
Technika Hammered
Orientace Variable alignment ↺
Rytci
V oběhu do
Reference HGC 7#322 , Alram#26
Popis líce Diademed head right.
Písmo líce
Opis líce
Popis rubu Male figure, wearing flat headdress, holding cornucopia in right hand, vine branch in left, from which a deer, standing right, feeds, on his left; MH monogram to inner right.
Písmo rubu Greek
Opis rubu ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΦAPNAKOY
(Translation: King Pharnaces)
Hrana
Mincovna
Náklad ND (200 BC - 169 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 8240229380
Další informace

Historical Context: This gold stater was issued by Pharnaces I, King of Pontos (200-169 BC), a pivotal figure in the Hellenistic East. His reign saw significant Pontic expansion, often through military conflict with neighboring kingdoms. The issuance of high-value gold coinage from Amisos highlights his economic strength and military ambitions, crucial for financing campaigns and asserting his kingdom's power amidst a shifting geopolitical landscape influenced by Rome.

Artistry: This stater showcases refined Hellenistic artistry. The obverse typically features a finely rendered, ivy-wreathed head of Dionysus, embodying the naturalism and idealized forms of the era. The reverse often depicts a cista mystica flanked by snakes, with a thrysus and royal monograms, all within an ivy wreath. This rich iconography, rooted in Dionysian cults, reflects the cultural identity and affiliations of the Pontic kingdom, presenting a sophisticated visual narrative of royal authority.

Technical/Grading: Struck from 8.47 grams of gold, 19.5 mm in diameter, this stater typically exhibits excellent fabric and strike quality. Critical high-points for evaluation include the intricate details of Dionysus's hair and ivy wreath on the obverse, and the scales of the snakes and cista mystica on the reverse. A well-centered and sharply struck example, free from significant planchet flaws or die wear, represents optimal technical execution, reflecting the precision expected of royal coinage.

×