Catalog
| Issuer | Byzantion (Thrace) |
|---|---|
| Year | 150 BC - 120 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Attic drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 16.88 g |
| Diameter | 34 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Marinescu#543 |
| 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 | 5990992918 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver tetradrachm, issued by Byzantion (150-120 BC), is a posthumous coinage type struck in the name of Lysimachus, a Diadoch of Alexander the Great. Long after his death in 281 BC, Lysimachus's coinage remained a respected international currency. Byzantion, a pivotal Thracian trade hub on the Bosporus, continued striking these types to leverage their established trust, facilitating extensive commerce during the later Hellenistic period and underscoring enduring economic stability.
Artistry: The obverse features the idealized head of the deified Alexander the Great, wearing a diadem and the ram's horn of Ammon, symbolizing his divine lineage. This late Hellenistic style, though engraver-anonymous, reflects classical refinement. The reverse depicts Athena enthroned, holding Nike and a spear, shield at her side. The inscription "BAΣIΛEΩΣ ΛYΣIMAXOY" is accompanied by Byzantion's mint marks, typically a trident or dolphin and BZ monograms, signifying its civic origin.
Technical/Grading: Weighing 16.88 grams and measuring 34 mm, this tetradrachm exhibits typical specifications. Key high-points susceptible to wear include Alexander's hair and diadem knots on the obverse, and Athena's face, drapery, and Nike's wings on the reverse. A strong strike ensures full detail, particularly in intricate hair and facial features. Centering and flan quality are crucial. The coin's overall fabric is generally consistent with Byzantion's issues from this period, often showing a broad, somewhat irregular flan.