Catalogus
| Uitgever | Byzantion |
|---|---|
| Jaar | 90 BC - 80 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Waarde | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Valuta | Drachm |
| Samenstelling | Silver |
| Gewicht | 16.1 g |
| Diameter | 31 mm |
| Dikte | |
| Vorm | Round (irregular) |
| Techniek | Hammered |
| Oriëntatie | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Graveur(s) | |
| In omloop tot | |
| Referentie(s) | HGC 3.2#1406 |
| Beschrijving voorzijde | Diademed head of the deified Alexander (III, the Great) right, with horn of Ammon. |
|---|---|
| Schrift voorzijde | |
| Opschrift voorzijde | |
| Beschrijving keerzijde | Athena seated left on throne, holding Nike in her outstretched right hand and spear in her left. Below throne, ΒΥ and ornamental trident and to left, monogram in left field. |
| Schrift keerzijde | Greek |
| Opschrift keerzijde |
ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΛΥΣΙΜΑΧΟΥ ΒΥ (Translation: King Lysimachos Byzantion) |
| Rand | |
| Muntplaats | |
| Oplage |
ND (90 BC - 80 BC) - - |
| Numisquare-ID | 1209033890 |
| Aanvullende informatie |
Historical Context: This Tetradrachm, issued by Byzantion between 90-80 BC, is a posthumous coinage in the name of Lysimachos, produced nearly two centuries after his death. During this late Hellenistic era, Byzantion, a significant economic power, maintained autonomy, continuing to strike these internationally recognized types. This issuance underscores Byzantion's role as a major trading hub and its commitment to a stable, trusted currency amidst regional political flux and growing Roman influence.
Artistry: The obverse features the iconic portrait of the deified Alexander the Great, facing right, adorned with the ram's horn of Ammon. This powerful image reflects enduring Hellenistic idealization. The reverse depicts Athena enthroned, holding Nike and a spear, with a shield resting beside her. Adhering to the classical stylistic school of earlier Lysimachan issues, Byzantion's renditions often display varying artistic refinement and local interpretations, typically incorporating specific mint marks.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, weighing 16.1 grams and measuring 31 mm, this tetradrachm adheres to the Attic standard. High-points for evaluation on the obverse include Alexander's hair, eye, and ram's horn. On the reverse, Athena's helmet, facial features, and Nike's details are critical. A superior strike exhibits excellent centering, full legends, and sharp rendering of intricate details, especially Alexander's hair and Athena's drapery. Flan quality, die wear, and strike anomalies are crucial for technical grade assessment.