Catalog
| Issuer | Byzantion (Thrace) |
|---|---|
| Year | 150 BC - 120 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Attic drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 17.13 g |
| Diameter | 34 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Marinescu#463, Müller Lysimachus#229 |
| Obverse description | Diademed head of the deified Alexander right, with horn of Ammon. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Athena Nikephoros seated left, left arm resting on shield, transverse spear in background; monogram to inner left, BY on throne, ornamented trident in exergue. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering |
ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΛΥΣΙΜΑΧΟΥ ΒΥ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | Byzantion, modern-day Istanbul, Turkey |
| Mintage | ND (150 BC - 120 BC) |
| Numisquare ID | 3557504430 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Tetradrachm, struck by Byzantion (Thrace) between 150 and 120 BC, is a posthumous issue in the name of Lysimachus. Though Lysimachus died in 281 BC, his coinage, especially the deified Alexander portrait, remained a trusted currency. Byzantion, a vital economic hub on the Bosphorus, continued minting these familiar types to facilitate regional trade and maintain monetary stability during the late Hellenistic period, amidst growing Roman influence.
Artistry: The coin's artistry reflects enduring late Hellenistic numismatic traditions. The anonymous engraver faithfully replicated the renowned prototype. The obverse features a magnificent portrait of the deified Alexander the Great, with a diadem and ram's horn of Ammon, symbolizing his divine lineage. The reverse depicts Athena enthroned, holding Nike and resting her arm on a shield, with a spear behind her. This classic Lysimachian composition blends classical grace with Hellenistic dynamism, though later issues may show stylistic variations.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a substantial silver flan (17.13 grams, 34 mm), this tetradrachm adheres to the Attic standard. A premium example exhibits a strong, centered strike, ensuring full detail on crucial high-points. On the obverse, these include Alexander's hair, diadem, and facial features. On the reverse, key details are Athena's head, the figure of Nike, and her drapery. While minor die wear is common, a well-preserved specimen retains sharp definition, clear legends, and minimal flan imperfections.