Catalogus
| Uitgever | Characene, Kingdom of |
|---|---|
| Jaar | 40 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Waarde | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Valuta | Drachm |
| Samenstelling | Bronze |
| Gewicht | 13.75 g |
| Diameter | 29 mm |
| Dikte | |
| Vorm | Round (irregular) |
| Techniek | Hammered |
| Oriëntatie | |
| Graveur(s) | |
| In omloop tot | |
| Referentie(s) | BMC Greek#3 |
| Beschrijving voorzijde | Head of Attambelos I to right, diademed, bearded. |
|---|---|
| Schrift voorzijde | |
| Opschrift voorzijde | |
| Beschrijving keerzijde | Herakles seated left on anvil-shaped seat, nude, holding with right hand a club set on his right knee flanked vertically by lettering, a monogram before his head, date in exergue. |
| Schrift keerzijde | Greek |
| Opschrift keerzijde |
ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΑΤΤΑΜΒΗΛΟΥ ΣΩΤΗΡΟΣ ΚΑΙ ΕΥΕΡΓΕΤΟΥ (Translation: Basileos Attambeloi Soteros Kaisar Euergetou. King Attambelos the savior, the benefactor caesar.) |
| Rand | |
| Muntplaats | |
| Oplage |
ND (-40) - ΒΟΣ - |
| Numisquare-ID | 7472513160 |
| Aanvullende informatie |
Historical Context: This Æ Tetradrachm, dated 40 BC, was issued by Attambelos I of Characene, a crucial Hellenistic kingdom at the Persian Gulf's head. Reigning from circa 47/46 BC to 25/24 BC, Attambelos I skillfully navigated geopolitical pressures from Parthia and Rome. This bronze coinage highlights Characene's economic prosperity and autonomy, driven by its pivotal role in East-West trade. It reflects the kingdom's self-sufficiency and adherence to Hellenistic numismatic traditions, despite nominal Parthian vassalage.
Artistry: The coin’s design merges Hellenistic artistic conventions with local Characenian interpretations. While no engraver is named, the stylistic school follows the Hellenistic tradition of royal portraiture. The obverse typically presents a diademed bust of King Attambelos I, conveying authority and dynastic legitimacy. The reverse commonly features a seated figure, often Herakles, or an eagle, with Greek legends identifying the monarch. These designs reflect Characene's cultural heritage and local veneration.
Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze, this 29 mm, 13.75 gg tetradrachm (BMC Greek#3) displays traits typical of Characenian issues. High-points for wear include the king's diadem, hair, nose, and chin on the obverse, and the reverse figure's musculature. Strike quality varies; a desirable example exhibits a centered design with clear facial features and legible legends. Bronze coinage is susceptible to corrosion and often has softer strikes than silver, making pieces with strong details and minimal degradation highly prized.