Catalog
| Issuer | Maroneia (Thrace) |
|---|---|
| Year | 189 BC - 45 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Attic drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 15.94 g |
| Diameter | 32 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Schönert-Geiss#1124, HGC 3.2#1556 |
| Obverse description | Wreathed head of young Dionysos right. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Dionysos standing nude to left, holding bunch of grapes, two spears and cloak; monogram to inner left and inner right. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | ΔΙΟΝΥΣΟΥ ΣΩΤΗΡΟΣ ΜΑΡΩΝΙΤΩΝ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | Maroneia, Thrace, modern-day Maroneia, Greece |
| Mintage | ND (189 BC - 45 BC) |
| Numisquare ID | 2487742120 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver tetradrachm from Maroneia, struck between 189 BC and 45 BC, belongs to a period of significant autonomy and economic prosperity for the Thracian city. Following its liberation from Macedonian control, Maroneia flourished as a free city within the burgeoning Roman sphere of influence. Its strategic coastal location and renowned wine trade propelled its economic standing, necessitating the issuance of substantial silver coinage like this tetradrachm to facilitate commerce.
Artistry: While no specific engraver is attributed, this tetradrachm exemplifies the Hellenistic stylistic school. The typical obverse design features a finely rendered head of Dionysus, the city's patron deity, often depicted with an ivy wreath, reflecting Maroneia's vital wine industry. The reverse frequently portrays a horse, symbolizing local equestrian traditions or specific cults, sometimes accompanied by grapes. The artistry emphasizes naturalism and dynamism.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a substantial silver flan weighing 15.94 grams and measuring 32 millimeters, this tetradrachm is a significant piece. For grading, key high-points to examine include the intricate details of Dionysus's hair and facial features on the obverse, and the musculature and mane of the horse on the reverse. A well-struck example would display excellent centering, full details from fresh dies, and minimal flan irregularities.