Catalogus
| Uitgever | Smyrna |
|---|---|
| Jaar | 150 BC - 143 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Waarde | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Valuta | Drachm |
| Samenstelling | Silver |
| Gewicht | 16.46 g |
| Diameter | 34 mm |
| Dikte | |
| Vorm | Round (irregular) |
| Techniek | Hammered |
| Oriëntatie | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Graveur(s) | |
| In omloop tot | |
| Referentie(s) | Milne Smyrna#123 Greek#3 |
| Beschrijving voorzijde | Head of Tyche right, wearing turreted crown. |
|---|---|
| Schrift voorzijde | |
| Opschrift voorzijde | |
| Beschrijving keerzijde | Legend in two lines with a monogram below. All within wreath. |
| Schrift keerzijde | Greek |
| Opschrift keerzijde | ΣΜΥΡ ΝΑΙΩΝ |
| Rand | |
| Muntplaats | |
| Oplage |
ND (150 BC - 143 BC) - - |
| Numisquare-ID | 2858633590 |
| Aanvullende informatie |
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.