Tetradrachm

Emitent Aetolian League
Rok 238 BC - 228 BC
Typ Standard circulation coin
Hodnota Tetradrachm (4)
Měna Attic drachm
Složení Silver
Hmotnost 16.92 g
Průměr 28.5 mm
Tloušťka
Tvar Round (irregular)
Technika Hammered
Orientace Medal alignment ↑↑
Rytci
V oběhu do
Reference Tsangari#466 , BostonMFA Supp#90 , McClean#5401
Popis líce Head of beardless Herakles in lion skin headdress to right.
Písmo líce
Opis líce
Popis rubu Aitolia, wearing kausia, hunting boots and a short chiton that leaves her right breast bare, holding a spear with her right hand and a sword with her left, seated to right on a Macedonian shield atop a pile of Gallic shield ones; on the ground below her spear, carnyx; to right monogram of ΑΤ over ΖΗ.
Písmo rubu Greek
Opis rubu ΑΙΤΩΛΩΝ
Hrana
Mincovna
Náklad ND (238 BC - 228 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 4604568440
Další informace

Historical Context: This silver tetradrachm, issued by the Aetolian League (238-228 BC), stems from a dynamic Hellenistic era. The League, a powerful federal state, was a dominant force, frequently clashing with Macedonian and Achaean rivals. This decade marked a zenith of Aetolian influence, characterized by active military campaigns and complex diplomacy. Issuing substantial silver coinage underscored their economic strength and political sovereignty, financing operations and projecting a unified, independent identity.

Artistry: While the engraver remains anonymous, this tetradrachm embodies the robust Hellenistic stylistic school. The obverse typically features a powerful Herakles, often wearing his Nemean lion-skin headdress, rendered with dynamic realism. The reverse frequently portrays Aetolia personified, often seated upon a pile of shields, holding a spear, symbolizing the League's martial prowess. Artistic execution showcases idealization and naturalism, with intricate details in musculature and drapery, reflecting advanced Aetolian craftsmanship.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a 28.5 mm flan and weighing 16.92 grams, this tetradrachm adheres to the Attic standard. Key high-points for wear include Herakles' forehead and lion's muzzle on the obverse, and Aetolia's head and exposed limbs on the reverse. A well-preserved example exhibits strong strike quality, with full details evident on both sides, particularly in Herakles' hair and Aetolia's drapery. Minor flan imperfections or slight off-centering are common.

×