Catalog
| Issuer | Byzantion (Thrace) |
|---|---|
| Year | 150 BC - 120 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Attic drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 16.56 g |
| Diameter | 32 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Marinescu#476, Müller Lysimachus#228 |
| 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 | 7769182460 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Tetradrachm, issued by Byzantion from 150 to 120 BC, is a posthumous continuation of the influential coinage type established by Lysimachus, a Diadoch of Alexander the Great. Long after Lysimachus's death in 281 BC, his distinctive coinage remained a widely accepted currency across the Hellenistic world. Byzantion, a vital Thracian city, leveraged this recognized type, asserting economic autonomy and integration into regional trade networks amidst shifting political power and growing Roman influence.
Artistry: The obverse portrays the deified head of Alexander the Great, facing right, adorned with the horn of Ammon, symbolizing divine parentage. Byzantion's issues from this period adhere to Late Hellenistic stylistic conventions, faithfully interpreting original Lysimachean types. The reverse features Athena enthroned, holding Nike, with a spear and shield, accompanied by the legend ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΛΥΣΙΜΑΧΟΥ and specific mint marks. Engravers are typically anonymous, but the execution reflects a competent and classic design.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a 32mm silver flan weighing 16.56 grams, this coin conforms to the Attic standard. Key high-points for wear on the obverse include Alexander's hair and the Ammon horn tip. On the reverse, Athena's face, knee, and Nike's details are critical. Later Hellenistic issues from Byzantion often exhibit variable strike quality; flans are generally well-prepared, but strikes can be off-center or possess areas of flatness on high relief points due to inconsistent die pressure. Surface preservation and die state significantly impact grade.