Tetradrachm In the name of Alexander III, Mesembria

Эмитент Mesembria
Год 125 BC - 65 BC
Тип Standard circulation coin
Номинал Tetradrachm (4)
Валюта Drachm
Состав Silver
Вес 16.62 g
Диаметр 26 mm
Толщина
Форма Round (irregular)
Техника Hammered
Ориентация Variable alignment ↺
Гравёр(ы)
В обращении до
Каталожные номера Price#1106
Описание аверса Head of Herakles in lion skin headdress to right
Письменность аверса
Надписи аверса
Описание реверса 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
Письменность реверса Greek
Надписи реверса ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ ΠΑΥ ΠΥ
(Translation: King Alexander (III, the Great))
Гурт
Монетный двор
Тираж ND (125 BC - 65 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 7566759230
Дополнительная информация

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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