Tetradrachm In the name of Lysimachus

发行方 Byzantion (Thrace)
年份 80 BC - 70 BC
类型 Standard circulation coin
面值 Tetradrachm (4)
货币 Attic drachm
材质 Silver
重量 15.35 g
直径 35 mm
厚度
形状 Round (irregular)
制作工艺 Hammered
方向 Variable alignment ↺
雕刻师
流通至
参考资料 Müller Lysimachus#192, SNG Stancomb#8, HGC 3.2#1402
正面描述 Diademed head of the deified Alexander right, with horn of Ammon.
正面文字
正面铭文
背面描述 Athena seated left, holding Nike, crowning the king's name, in her right hand and leaning with her left arm on shield, transverse spear in background; monogram to inner left, BY on throne, ornamented trident in exergue.
背面文字 Greek
背面铭文 ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΛΥΣΙΜΑΧΟΥ
BY
边缘
铸币厂 Byzantion, modern-day Istanbul, Turkey
铸造量 ND (80 BC - 70 BC)
Numisquare 编号 4191632171
附加信息

Historical Context: This Tetradrachm, struck by Byzantion between 80 and 70 BC, represents a fascinating continuation of a widely recognized currency type long after Lysimachus's death (d. 281 BC). Issued in his name, it underscores the enduring economic power and trust associated with his coinage across the Hellenistic world. Byzantion, a vital Thracian city, maintained its strategic importance and economic autonomy during increasing Roman influence, utilizing a familiar and stable currency for regional trade.

Artistry: The coin's design adheres faithfully to the established Lysimachian prototype, a testament to its iconic status. The obverse features the deified head of Alexander the Great, depicted with the ram's horn of Ammon, a powerful symbol of divine authority. The reverse presents Athena enthroned, holding a figure of Nike, with a shield beside her. While the specific engraver remains anonymous, the execution reflects skilled Hellenistic die-engraving, capturing idealized features and intricate details of the iconography, often with local monograms.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a substantial silver flan measuring 35mm and weighing 15.35 grams, this tetradrachm typically exhibits a broad and impressive strike, allowing for full design depiction. High-points on the obverse include Alexander's hair, diadem, and ram's horn; on the reverse, Athena's helmet, knee, and Nike's wings are often the first areas to show wear. The large flan size frequently ensures a well-centered strike, with strong metal flow contributing to crisp relief, though minor die wear or striking anomalies are possible.

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