Tetradrachm - Aphobetos, son of Philip

发行方 Laodikeia (Phrygia)
年份 88 BC - 67 BC
类型 Standard circulation coin
面值 Tetradrachm (4)
货币 Cistophoric drachm
材质 Silver
重量 12.43 g
直径 26 mm
厚度
形状 Round (irregular)
制作工艺 Hammered
方向 Variable alignment ↺
雕刻师
流通至
参考资料 BMC Greek#5
正面描述 Cista mystica with serpent; all within ivy wreath.
正面文字
正面铭文
背面描述 Two snakes coiled around a bow case; to left, ΛAO; to right, winged kerykeion; between snakes heads, magistrate name in two lines.
背面文字 Greek
背面铭文 ΛAO ΑΦΟΒΗΤΟΣ ΦΙΛΙΠΠΟΥ
边缘
铸币厂
铸造量 ND (88 BC - 67 BC) - -
Numisquare 编号 2567305190
附加信息

Historical Context: This silver tetradrachm, issued by Laodikeia in Phrygia (88-67 BC), reflects a tumultuous late Hellenistic period of Mithridatic Wars and growing Roman influence. Bearing Aphobetos, son of Philip, likely a civic magistrate, it signifies Laodikeia's municipal autonomy in minting currency. Such tetradrachms served as stable, international currency amidst regional instability, asserting local authority and economic resilience.

Artistry: While the engraver is anonymous, this coin exemplifies the late Hellenistic stylistic tradition common in Asia Minor. This style blends classical idealism with naturalism and dynamic presentation. Though specific design details are absent, tetradrachms of this era typically featured a prominent deity head, like Zeus or Athena, on the obverse, rendered with expressive detail, and a symbolic reverse, often an eagle or civic emblem, with the city's ethnic and magistrate's name.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this tetradrachm weighs 12.43 grams and measures 26 millimeters, consistent with the type's standard specifications. Technical assessment focuses on strike quality and flan preparation. Key high-points, typically the highest relief areas like the obverse portrait's hair or diadem and any reverse figure's musculature, are crucial for determining strike strength. A well-centered, full impression and an evenly prepared flan significantly enhance technical merit and overall grade.

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