Tetradrachm
| Issuer | Rhegion |
|---|---|
| Year | 425 BC - 420 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 17.31 g |
| Diameter | 26 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | HN Italy#2491, SNG Lockett#650, SNG Lloyd#684, SNG ANS 3#642, McClean#1865, De Luynes#790 |
| Obverse description | Facing lion`s head, on brows, two circular elements each containing three pellets; retrograde K to left, laurel sprig to right. The lion of Rhegion`s coinage is the sacred animal of Apollo, patron god of colonisation. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Male figure (Iokastos, or Aristaios) seated to left, holding sceptre in right hand, left hand resting behind on drapery tied around waist, serpent below seat; all within laurel wreath. The seated figure has no distinctive attributes that aid identification. Current interpretations attribute him as being Iokastos, son of Aiolos. Iokastos was king over much of Calabria. He died from a snake-bite according to Heraclides, a pupil of Plato. His brothers Pheraimon and Agathurnos were commemorated on coins of Messana and Tyndaris. |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (425 BC - 420 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1725070040 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: This silver tetradrachm was issued by Rhegion, a prominent Chalcidian colony in Magna Graecia, between 425 and 420 BC. This era coincided with the Peloponnesian War, a period of significant political and military upheaval across the Greek world. Rhegion, strategically positioned on the Strait of Messina, maintained a complex network of alliances, often with Athens. The production of this substantial denomination underscores Rhegion's economic prosperity and assertion of political autonomy, sustained by its maritime trade and agricultural wealth amidst regional instability.
Artistry: The design exemplifies the High Classical style prevalent in Magna Graecia, renowned for its refined naturalism and dynamic composition. While no specific engraver is named, the consistent high quality suggests the work of a master craftsman, often termed the "Master of the Rhegion Dies." The obverse typically features a powerful lion's scalp, rendered with striking realism. The reverse often depicts Iokastos, Rhegion's legendary founder, or Apollo, seated with a lyre, embodying the city's cultural and mythical heritage.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a broad flan of high-purity silver, this tetradrachm generally exhibits a strong strike, though centering can vary. For the obverse lion's scalp, key high-points include the detailed mane, prominent snout, and relief of the ears. On the reverse, the head, musculature, and drapery folds of the seated figure, along with attributes, are primary high-points. Well-preserved examples retain sharp detail in these areas, showcasing the intricate work, with minor die wear common for issues of this period.