Catalog
| Issuer | Smyrna |
|---|---|
| Year | 150 BC - 143 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 16.46 g |
| Diameter | 34 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Milne Smyrna#123 Greek#3 |
| Obverse description | Head of Tyche right, wearing turreted crown. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Legend in two lines with a monogram below. All within wreath. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | ΣΜΥΡ ΝΑΙΩΝ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (150 BC - 143 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 2858633590 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver tetradrachm, issued by the Ionian city of Smyrna (150-143 BC), emerges from a period of geopolitical transition in Asia Minor. As a free city within the Roman sphere of influence, Smyrna enjoyed considerable autonomy. The issuance of such large-denomination silver coinage (16.46 grams) underscores Smyrna's economic prosperity and its role as a vital port and trading hub. The name "Aris..." likely refers to a senior civic magistrate, reflecting the city's self-governance.
Artistry: The coin exemplifies the mature Hellenistic artistic tradition prevalent in Asia Minor. The stylistic school prioritizes naturalism and detailed execution. The obverse typically features a finely rendered head of Tyche, the city's patron goddess, often adorned with a mural crown, symbolizing Smyrna's fortifications. The reverse commonly displays a powerful lion, a traditional city symbol, accompanied by the magistrate's name, "Aris...", and the city's ethnic. The overall design conveyed civic pride and economic stability.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a substantial 34 mm flan, this tetradrachm adheres to the Attic weight standard, albeit slightly under the full theoretical weight, possibly due to circulation or minor flan variations. Key high-points for grading include the relief of Tyche's mural crown and hair on the obverse, and the musculature and mane of the lion on the reverse. A well-struck example exhibits full detail on these elements. Technical qualities include die centering, strike evenness, and metal integrity.