Catalog
| Issuer | Byzantion (Thrace) |
|---|---|
| Year | 150 BC - 120 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Attic drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 16.82 g |
| Diameter | 34 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Marinescu#501, Müller Lysimachus#220, Berlin#61 |
| 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 | 9084375961 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Tetradrachm, issued by Byzantion (150-120 BC), is a posthumous issue bearing the name of Lysimachus, who died in 281 BC. This reflects a strategic decision to adopt universally recognized coin types for Hellenistic international commerce. Byzantion, a pivotal trade city, maintained economic stability by striking these familiar types. The enduring prestige of Lysimachus's coinage, featuring the deified Alexander, ensured broad acceptance, prioritizing commercial utility and trust over direct dynastic association.
Artistry: The obverse features a masterful, Late Hellenistic portrayal of the deified Alexander the Great, facing right, adorned with the diadem and ram's horn of Ammon, symbolizing his divine lineage. This iconic image, a hallmark of Lysimachean coinage, is rendered with idealized features and authority. The reverse depicts Athena Nikephoros, seated left on