Catalog
| Issuer | Kings of Paeonia |
|---|---|
| Year | 300 BC - 286 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Attic drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 17.27 g |
| Diameter | 25 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Price#646 3.1#157 10#371 |
| Obverse description | Head of beardless Heracles right wearing lion skin headdress. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Zeus seated on stool-throne left, eagle on outstretched right hand, sceptre in left hand; in left field, monogram. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ |
| Edge | |
| Mint |
Astibus, Paeonia, North Macedonia Damastium, Illyricum, North Macedonia |
| Mintage |
ND (300 BC - 286 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 8655632740 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This tetradrachm was issued by Audoleon, King of Paeonia, between 300 BC and 286 BC. This period falls within the turbulent Hellenistic era, following the death of Alexander the Great. Paeonia, a kingdom north of Macedon, asserted its autonomy while often remaining within the Macedonian sphere of influence. Audoleon's decision to strike coinage "in the name of Alexander III" reflects the enduring prestige and widespread acceptance of Alexander's monetary system. This practice allowed regional rulers to legitimize their authority and facilitate trade within a familiar economic framework, even as the vast Macedonian Empire fragmented, with production likely centered at mints such as Astibos or Damastion.
Artistry: The artistic design of this tetradrachm closely follows the iconic prototypes established during Alexander III's reign. The obverse typically presents a powerful depiction of Herakles, his head adorned with the Nemean lion's scalp, executed with the robust naturalism characteristic of early Hellenistic art. The reverse features Zeus Aëtophoros, enthroned, holding an eagle in his outstretched right hand and a scepter in his left. While no specific engraver is attributed, the stylistic school is distinctly Macedonian-Hellenistic, prioritizing idealized strength and divine majesty, though local mints would have imparted subtle regional characteristics to the overall execution.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver to the Attic standard, this tetradrachm weighs 17.27 grams and measures 25 mm. Critical high-points for assessing wear on the obverse include Herakles' brow, nose, and the details of the lion's muzzle and mane. On the reverse, the relief of Zeus's chest, left knee, the eagle's head, and the top of the scepter are key indicators of preservation. Well-struck examples exhibit sharp details, good centering, and a full flan, though variations in strike pressure and minor die wear are common due to the intense coinage production of the period.