Tetradrachm In the name of Alexander III, Mesembria

Emitent Mesembria
Rok 125 BC - 65 BC
Typ Standard circulation coin
Nominał Tetradrachm (4)
Waluta Drachm
Skład Silver
Waga 16.62 g
Średnica 26 mm
Grubość
Kształt Round (irregular)
Technika Hammered
Orientacja Variable alignment ↺
Rytownik(zy)
W obiegu do
Źródło(a) Price#1106
Opis awersu Head of Herakles in lion skin headdress to right
Pismo awersu
Legenda awersu
Opis rewersu Zeus seated left on high-backed throne, holding eagle in his right hand and long scepter in his left. To left, monogram of ΠΑΥ above helmet and below throne, monogram of ΠΥ
Pismo rewersu Greek
Legenda rewersu ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ ΠΑΥ ΠΥ
(Translation: King Alexander (III, the Great))
Krawędź
Mennica
Nakład ND (125 BC - 65 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 7566759230
Dodatkowe informacje

Historical Context: This Tetradrachm, issued by Mesembria (125-65 BC), exemplifies the enduring numismatic legacy of Alexander III. As a vital Greek colony on the Thracian coast, Mesembria strategically adopted this internationally recognized standard. In an era of increasing Roman influence, the widespread acceptance of Alexander-type currency was crucial for trade, providing a universally trusted medium and underscoring the city's commercial integration.

Artistry: The coin adheres to standard iconography: obverse depicting Herakles' head right in Nemean lion-skin, symbolizing Alexander's mythical ancestry. The reverse features Zeus Aetophoros enthroned left, holding an eagle and scepter, with the legend 'ALEXANDROU'. While specific engravers are unrecorded, Mesembrian issues (Price#1106) typically exhibit competent Hellenistic style. These posthumous types often incorporated subtle local mint marks or monograms, identifying the issuing city within the widely accepted design framework.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this example weighs 16.62 grams and measures 26 mm, closely aligning with the Attic standard. Critical high-points for assessing strike quality include Herakles' lion's mane, facial features, and Zeus's head, torso, and the eagle's details. A superior strike exhibits clear, centralized impressions, minimal die wear, and full legends. While off-centering or minor planchet imperfections are common, a well-preserved specimen reveals the mint's dedication to producing a reliable, visually consistent trade currency.

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