Danh mục
| Đơn vị phát hành | Characene, Kingdom of |
|---|---|
| Năm | 122 BC |
| Loại | Standard circulation coin |
| Mệnh giá | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Tiền tệ | Drachm |
| Chất liệu | Silver |
| Trọng lượng | 16.30 g |
| Đường kính | 32 mm |
| Độ dày | |
| Hình dạng | Round (irregular) |
| Kỹ thuật | Hammered |
| Hướng | |
| Nghệ nhân khắc | |
| Lưu hành đến | |
| Tài liệu tham khảo | Alram#491, Sunrise#463, DCA#479 |
| Mô tả mặt trước | Diademed head of Hyspaosines right. |
|---|---|
| Chữ viết mặt trước | |
| Chữ khắc mặt trước | |
| Mô tả mặt sau | 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. |
| Chữ viết mặt sau | Greek |
| Chữ khắc mặt sau | ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΥΣΠΑΟΣΙΝΟΥ |
| Cạnh | |
| Xưởng đúc | |
| Số lượng đúc |
ND (-122) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 5001067600 |
| Thông tin bổ sung |
Historical Context: This silver tetradrachm, struck in 122 BC, originates from the Kingdom of Characene under King Hyspaosines. Formerly a Seleucid satrap, Hyspaosines capitalized on the weakening Seleucid Empire to establish an independent kingdom at the head of the Persian Gulf. His reign marked Characene's foundation as a crucial maritime trade hub. This coin, minted in his own name, signifies his assertion of sovereignty and a pivotal moment in the region's geopolitical landscape.
Artistry: The artistic style of this tetradrachm is distinctly Hellenistic, reflecting Alexander's cultural legacy. While the engraver remains anonymous, the obverse typically features a finely rendered, idealized portrait of King Hyspaosines, often with a royal diadem. The reverse commonly displays a seated figure of Zeus Nikephoros or Herakles, embodying strength and divine favor, usually with Greek legends. The execution demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of classical Greek numismatic traditions, adapted locally.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, weighing 16.30 grams and 32 mm, this tetradrachm aligns with general period standards, though slightly below the Attic standard. For optimal grading, collectors seek a strong strike on both sides, particularly sharp details on Hyspaosines' portrait (hair, diadem, facial features) and the reverse deity's musculature and attributes. A well-centered strike, free from significant flan flaws or excessive die wear, is highly desirable for full design clarity.