Catalogue
| Émetteur | Kings of Baktria |
|---|---|
| Année | 90 BC - 75 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Devise | Drachm (305-15BC) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Poids | 9.90 g |
| Diamètre | 26 mm |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | Bop#4A , SNG ANS 9#1148-1149 , MIG#291 , HGC 12#379 , Bopearachchi&Rahman#468 |
| Description de l’avers | This `coin` has the shape of a four-sided pyramid with a peak in the middle. The peak is surrounded by a floral pattern on the plinth/ledge. There is a hole at one of the sides. The peak is about 5-6 millimeters high. |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | Greek |
| Légende de l’avers | |
| Description du revers | As a consequence of the peak on the obverse there is an indentation on the reverse. This is surrounded by Jawi (Malay version of the Arabic alphabet) script. Start reading the text at the bottom, from the right to the left and clockwise when the hole is to the left. |
| Écriture du revers | Kharosthi |
| Légende du revers |
ملك ال عادل ترك كڤد بلن رجب سنت ١٢٩٥ (Translation: The Just King dated in the month of Rajab in the year 1295) |
| Tranche | |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
1295 (1878) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 5223872910 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
Historical Context: This silver tetradrachm was issued by Heliokles II, an Indo-Greek king ruling between 90 BC and 75 BC. His reign occurred during a period of significant fragmentation and decline for the Hellenistic presence in the Indian subcontinent. Facing relentless Scythian incursions, Heliokles II likely controlled territories in Gandhara and the Punjab. His coinage reflects the twilight of Greek dynastic rule and the struggle to maintain authority amidst encroaching foreign powers.
Artistry: While the specific engraver is unknown, this coin exemplifies the Hellenistic stylistic tradition, exhibiting a provincial character typical of later Indo-Greek issues. The obverse features a diademed bust of Heliokles II, often rendered with a strong, regal presence. The reverse design frequently depicts Zeus enthroned, holding a scepter and thunderbolt, a powerful symbol of divine authority. The overall design adheres to established Greek iconography, though execution can vary compared to earlier, more refined Bactrian issues.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this tetradrachm weighs 9.90 grams and measures 26 millimeters. It generally exhibits good metal quality. Key high-points for wear assessment on the obverse include the king's hair, diadem knot, and facial features. On the reverse, the head of Zeus, scepter, and thunderbolt are critical areas. While strike quality can vary, well-preserved examples demonstrate sharp details, good centering, and full legends, reflecting the minting standards despite the era's political instability.