Tetradrachm - Aris...

Đơn vị phát hành Smyrna
Năm 150 BC - 143 BC
Loại Standard circulation coin
Mệnh giá Tetradrachm (4)
Tiền tệ Drachm
Chất liệu Silver
Trọng lượng 16.46 g
Đường kính 34 mm
Độ dày
Hình dạng Round (irregular)
Kỹ thuật Hammered
Hướng Medal alignment ↑↑
Nghệ nhân khắc
Lưu hành đến
Tài liệu tham khảo Milne Smyrna#123 Greek#3
Mô tả mặt trước Head of Tyche right, wearing turreted crown.
Chữ viết mặt trước
Chữ khắc mặt trước
Mô tả mặt sau Legend in two lines with a monogram below. All within wreath.
Chữ viết mặt sau Greek
Chữ khắc mặt sau ΣΜΥΡ ΝΑΙΩΝ
Cạnh
Xưởng đúc
Số lượng đúc ND (150 BC - 143 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 2858633590
Thông tin bổ sung

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.

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