Catalogo
| Emittente | Smyrna |
|---|---|
| Anno | 150 BC - 143 BC |
| Tipo | Standard circulation coin |
| Valore | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Valuta | Drachm |
| Composizione | Silver |
| Peso | 16.46 g |
| Diametro | 34 mm |
| Spessore | |
| Forma | Round (irregular) |
| Tecnica | Hammered |
| Orientamento | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Incisore/i | |
| In circolazione fino al | |
| Riferimento/i | Milne Smyrna#123 Greek#3 |
| Descrizione del dritto | Head of Tyche right, wearing turreted crown. |
|---|---|
| Scrittura del dritto | |
| Legenda del dritto | |
| Descrizione del rovescio | Legend in two lines with a monogram below. All within wreath. |
| Scrittura del rovescio | Greek |
| Legenda del rovescio | ΣΜΥΡ ΝΑΙΩΝ |
| Bordo | |
| Zecca | |
| Tiratura |
ND (150 BC - 143 BC) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 2858633590 |
| Informazioni aggiuntive |
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.