Catalog
| Issuer | Knidos |
|---|---|
| Year | 200 BC - 150 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 16.61 g |
| Diameter | 30 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | HN Online#1607 |
| Obverse description | Head of Apollo facing right, wearing laurel wreath. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Artemis Hyakinthotrophos standing facing, head left, holding phiale in extended right hand, her left arm resting on the statue of an archaic deity with a sheathed body and wearing a polos. To the lower left, forepart of a stag standing left, upon which drips liquid from Artemis’ phiale. Inscription to the right. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | KИIΔIOИ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (200 BC - 150 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 2007708920 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver tetradrachm from Knidos, struck 200-150 BC, originates from a pivotal Hellenistic period. Knidos, a prominent Carian city, maintained economic vitality and political autonomy through maritime trade and strategic alliances, despite shifting regional powers. The issuance of such substantial silver coinage underscores Knidos's prosperity and its continued status as a significant commercial hub in the Aegean, capable of minting its own currency.
Artistry: The obverse masterfully depicts the head of Aphrodite, facing right, adorned with a stephane, pendant earring, and pearl necklace. This iconic representation directly references the city's revered cult statue by Praxiteles, embodying Hellenistic ideals of beauty and divine grace. The unknown engraver rendered Aphrodite with serene elegance, characteristic of the period's stylistic school. The reverse features a galley prow, decorated with a dolphin and an aphlaston, symbolizing Knidos's powerful naval and mercantile identity. A monogram below the prow identifies the issuing authority.
Technical/Grading: Weighing 16.61 grams and measuring 30 millimeters, this tetradrachm exhibits typical specifications for its type. Key high-points for grading include the intricate details of Aphrodite's stephane, individual hair strands, and the pearls of her necklace, along with the distinct features of her face. On the reverse, clarity of the dolphin, the structure of the prow, and the aphlaston are crucial. A well-centered strike, free from significant die wear, would ensure full detail on these elements, reflecting the technical skill of the Knidian mint.