Tetradrachm

Uitgever Akanthos (Macedon)
Jaar 430 BC
Type Standard circulation coin
Waarde Tetradrachm (4)
Valuta Attic drachm
Samenstelling Silver
Gewicht 17.31 g
Diameter 29 mm
Dikte
Vorm Round (irregular)
Techniek Hammered, Incuse
Oriëntatie Variable alignment ↺
Graveur(s)
In omloop tot
Referentie(s) Desneux#113-115 III#24 , Jameson#930 IV#1059 , BostonMFA#528
Beschrijving voorzijde Lion right, attacking bull kneeling to left and biting into his hind quarters; above ΔΗ. In exergue, grape cluster with leaf and tendrils.
Schrift voorzijde Greek
Opschrift voorzijde ΔΗ
Beschrijving keerzijde Quadripartite square with dotted surface; all within incuse square.
Schrift keerzijde Greek
Opschrift keerzijde AKANΘΙΟΝ
(Translation: Akanthos)
Rand
Muntplaats
Oplage ND (-430) - -
Numisquare-ID 2019454280
Aanvullende informatie

Historical Context: Struck by the independent Chalcidian city of Akanthos circa 430 BC, this Tetradrachm dates to the early Peloponnesian War. Akanthos, a vital port on the Strymonic Gulf, leveraged local resources like timber and nearby silver mines. Issuing these substantial silver denominations underscored the city's economic strength and autonomy, establishing its currency as a recognized medium of exchange across the Hellenic world amidst geopolitical flux.

Artistry: The coin’s design reflects the vigorous Early Classical style, transitioning from Archaic formality to emergent naturalism. While engravers are unknown, the obverse features the iconic motif of a powerful lion attacking a bull, symbolizing the city’s strength or regional wildness. The lion is typically depicted with ferocious energy and anatomical precision. The reverse consistently displays a quadripartite incuse

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