Catalog
| Issuer | Nisyros (Carian Islands) |
|---|---|
| Year | 200 BC - 190 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Attic drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 16.88 g |
| Diameter | 32 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Price#2508 Online#1756 |
| Obverse description | Head of beardless Heracles right wearing lion skin headdress. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Zeus seated on stool-throne left, eagle on outstretched right hand, sceptre in left hand; to left, И. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ И |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (200 BC - 190 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 9843381840 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver tetradrachm, issued by Nisyros in the Carian Islands (200-190 BC), reflects a dynamic Hellenistic era. Following the Second Macedonian War, the Aegean world experienced shifting power, with kingdoms vying for influence and Rome's growing presence. Nisyros, though a smaller island polity, demonstrated economic autonomy by striking this large denomination, adhering to the Rhodian weight standard of 16.88 grams. This issuance underscores Nisyros's participation in regional trade networks and its relative autonomy in the early 2nd century BC, likely under Rhodes's influence.
Artistry: The coin's design exemplifies the Hellenistic artistic tradition,