Tetradrachm In the name of Alexander III

発行体 Mytilene (Lesbos)
年号 188 BC - 170 BC
種類 Standard circulation coin
額面 Tetradrachm (4)
通貨 Attic drachm
材質 Silver
重量 16.29 g
直径 35 mm
厚さ
形状 Round (irregular)
製造技法 Hammered
向き Variable alignment ↺
彫刻師
流通終了年
参考文献
表面の説明 Head of beardless Heracles right wearing lion skin headdress.
表面の文字体系
表面の銘文
裏面の説明 Zeus seated on stool-throne left, eagle on outstretched right hand, sceptre in left hand; in left field, monogram above kithara; Z below throne.
裏面の文字体系 Greek
裏面の銘文 ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ
鋳造所 Mytilene, Lesbos, modern-day Mytilene, Greece
鋳造数 ND (188 BC - 170 BC)
Numisquare ID 5212223514
追加情報

Historical Context: This Tetradrachm, struck in Mytilene on Lesbos between 188 and 170 BC, highlights the enduring legacy of Alexander III's monetary standard. Issued long after his death, it reflects a period of shifting power following Rome's defeat of Antiochus III, granting cities like Mytilene greater autonomy. The continued use of Alexandrine coinage by Mytilene underscores its economic importance and integration into the broader Hellenistic trade network, where such universally recognized currency was essential.

Artistry: The coin exhibits the refined aesthetic characteristic of late Hellenistic minting. The obverse features a robust depiction of Herakles right, wearing the Nemean lion-skin. Mytilene's engravers skillfully rendered the hero's powerful features and the lion's textured mane, demonstrating high craftsmanship. The reverse presents Zeus Aëtophoros seated left, holding an eagle and scepter, with the legend 'ALEXANDROU'. The composition is balanced, and details of Zeus's drapery and the eagle's plumage are typically rendered with precision.

Technical/Grading: This substantial silver flan, measuring 35mm and weighing 16.29 grams, indicates careful preparation. High-points for wear or strike weakness typically include Herakles's brow, cheek, and the lion's muzzle, along with Zeus's knee, shoulder, and the eagle's head. A strong strike ensures full detail on these areas, including intricate drapery and hair. The weight, while slightly below the Attic standard, is consistent with later issues. Examination focuses on die alignment, centering, and the overall sharpness of the impression.

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