Catálogo
| Emissor | Athens |
|---|---|
| Ano | 106 BC - 105 BC |
| Tipo | Standard circulation coin |
| Valor | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Moeda | Drachm |
| Composição | Silver |
| Peso | 16.38 g |
| Diâmetro | 29 mm |
| Espessura | |
| Formato | Round (irregular) |
| Técnica | Hammered |
| Orientação | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Gravador(es) | |
| Em circulação até | |
| Referência(s) | Thompson#750a 4#1602 |
| Descrição do anverso | Helmeted head of Athena Parthenos right. |
|---|---|
| Escrita do anverso | |
| Legenda do anverso | |
| Descrição do reverso | Owl standing right on amphora, head facing; magistrates’ names in fields; in right field, winged Tyche standing left, holding uncertain object over amphora and cradling cornucopia; B on amphora, ΣO below; all within wreath. |
| Escrita do reverso | Greek |
| Legenda do reverso | |
| Bordo | |
| Casa da moeda | |
| Tiragem |
ND (106 BC - 105 BC) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 6464156560 |
| Informações adicionais |
Historical Context: This Athenian Tetradrachm, issued between 106 and 105 BC, falls within the later phase of the New Style coinage, a period marked by Athens' continued economic and political prominence in the Eastern Mediterranean. Despite growing Roman influence, Athens maintained its significant role as a trading hub and cultural center. The magistrates Herakleides, Eukles, and Asklepiades oversaw the minting during a relatively stable interval preceding the tumultuous Mithridatic Wars, which would profoundly impact the city. These coins facilitated extensive commerce and underscored Athens' enduring sovereignty.
Artistry: The coin exemplifies the Hellenistic artistic tradition prevalent in Athenian New Style coinage. While engravers remain anonymous, the design showcases meticulous detail and high relief. The obverse features a majestic bust of Athena Parthenos, facing right, adorned with an elaborate Attic helmet typically decorated with a Pegasus or similar motif. The reverse displays the iconic Athenian owl, standing right on an amphora, flanked by the magistrates' names and a specific control symbol, for this issue a standing Nike holding a wreath and palm branch, signifying victory and prosperity.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, weighing 16.38 grams and measuring 29 mm, this coin adheres to the established monetary standards of the era. Key high-points include Athena's helmet crests, cheek, and eye, along with the owl's breast and head. Due to the high-relief dies, minor strike weaknesses are common, particularly on the helmet's upper crests or the owl's finer feather details. Centering can vary, yet a well-struck example will exhibit strong details across both obverse and reverse, with minimal flan imperfections, reflecting careful minting.