Tetradrachm In the name of Alexander III

Đơn vị phát hành Mytilene (Lesbos)
Năm 215 BC - 200 BC
Loại Standard circulation coin
Mệnh giá Tetradrachm (4)
Tiền tệ Attic drachm
Chất liệu Silver
Trọng lượng 17 g
Đường kính 35 mm
Độ dày
Hình dạng Round (irregular)
Kỹ thuật Hammered
Hướng Variable alignment ↺
Nghệ nhân khắc
Lưu hành đến
Tài liệu tham khảo
Mô tả mặt trước Head of beardless Heracles right wearing lion skin headdress.
Chữ viết mặt trước
Chữ khắc mặt trước
Mô tả mặt sau Zeus seated on stool-throne left, eagle on outstretched right hand, sceptre in left hand; in left field, monogram above kithara/lyre/chelys.
Chữ viết mặt sau Greek
Chữ khắc mặt sau ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ
Cạnh
Xưởng đúc Mytilene, Lesbos, modern-day Mytilene, Greece
Số lượng đúc ND (215 BC - 200 BC)
ID Numisquare 5954836083
Thông tin bổ sung

Historical Context: This Tetradrachm, struck by Mytilene on Lesbos between 215 and 200 BC, exemplifies Alexander III's enduring numismatic legacy. Issued long after his death, its continued production under his name reflects the widespread acceptance of his coinage standard across the Hellenistic world. Mytilene, a significant Aegean maritime power, demonstrated economic vitality and strategic importance through such substantial silver coinage amidst the complex political landscape of the Diadochi kingdoms and the rise of Rome.

Artistry: The coin adheres to the iconic Alexander III types. The obverse features a powerful depiction of Herakles right, clad in the Nemean lion's skin. The reverse presents Zeus Aëtophoros enthroned left, holding an eagle and scepter, with the inscription AΛEΞANΔPOY. The anonymous engraver's work reflects the late Hellenistic stylistic school, characterized by refined, idealized mythological figures. Mytilene’s mint imparted subtle local interpretations, evident in nuanced facial features and detailed drapery, distinguishing its issues.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this example boasts a substantial weight of 17 grams and an impressive diameter of 35 millimeters. Key high-points for strike quality include the intricate details of the lion's mane and Herakles' facial features. On the reverse, the precise rendering of the eagle, Zeus's musculature, and drapery are critical. A superior strike exhibits excellent centering, full and even pressure, and minimal die wear. The broad flan provides ample room for the types, though off-centering can occur.

×