Tetrachalkon - Mithridates VI Komana

Đơn vị phát hành Comana Pontica
Năm 120 BC - 90 BC
Loại Standard circulation coin
Mệnh giá Tetrachalkon (1⁄12)
Tiền tệ Drachm
Chất liệu Bronze
Trọng lượng 6.3 g
Đường kính 20 mm
Độ dày 2 mm
Hình dạng Round (irregular)
Kỹ thuật Hammered
Hướng Variable alignment ↺
Nghệ nhân khắc
Lưu hành đến
Tài liệu tham khảo HGC 7#281, SNG BM Black Sea#1262-3, SNG France#826-30
Mô tả mặt trước Gorgoneion on aegis.
Chữ viết mặt trước
Chữ khắc mặt trước
Mô tả mặt sau Nike advancing right, holding wreath and palm branch.
Chữ viết mặt sau Greek
Chữ khắc mặt sau ΚOMA NΩΝ
(Translation: Komana)
Cạnh
Xưởng đúc
Số lượng đúc ND (120 BC - 90 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 1079063680
Thông tin bổ sung

Historical Context: This Tetrachalkon, issued by Comana Pontica between 120 and 90 BC, originates from the formative years of Mithridates VI Eupator's reign. As King of Pontus, Mithridates consolidated power and expanded influence across the Black Sea region. Comana, a vital cult center for the goddess Ma, served as a strategic and religious cornerstone of his realm. These bronze issues were crucial for local commerce and disseminating royal iconography, reinforcing the king's authority and divine connections.

Artistry: The design exemplifies Hellenistic artistic traditions. The obverse typically features a finely rendered head of the goddess Ma, often wearing a distinctive triple-crested helmet, reflecting her martial aspect and Comana's religious significance. While specific engravers are unknown, the stylistic execution often demonstrates considerable skill. The reverse commonly displays a prominent star and crescent, potent dynastic symbols associated with the Mithridatic dynasty, asserting the king's divine favor and sovereignty.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a 20mm bronze flan weighing approximately 6.3 grams, technical quality varies. For a high-grade example, key high-points include the intricate details of the triple-crested helmet on the obverse and the goddess's facial features. On the reverse, sharpness in the star's points and crescent's tips are crucial indicators of a strong strike. Common issues include minor off-centering, flan imperfections, or areas of weakness, typical for bronze coinage of the period.

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