Tetradrachm - Kamnaskires III and Anzaze
| Issuer | Elymais |
|---|---|
| Year | 82 BC - 73 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Drachm (247 BC-224 AD) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 15.96 g |
| Diameter | 28.5 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Alram#454 cf. Elymais#7.1.1-1 var. |
| Obverse description | Conjoined busts left of Kamnaskires and Queen Anzaze; anchor symbol behind. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Zeus seated left, holding scepter and Nike, who crowns him; monogram below his arm. |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (82 BC - 73 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1930850300 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: This silver tetradrachm was issued by Kamnaskires III and his queen, Anzaze, rulers of Elymais (82-73 BC). Elymais, a semi-autonomous kingdom within the Parthian sphere, maintained a distinct numismatic tradition. The joint depiction of Kamnaskires III and Anzaze is particularly significant, highlighting the queen's prominent political or dynastic role, a rare occurrence. This period reflects Elymais's assertion of independence and unique cultural identity amidst regional power dynamics.
Artistry: The design exemplifies the blend of Hellenistic and local Parthian artistic conventions prevalent in Elymaean coinage. While engravers remain anonymous, the stylistic school draws from Greek tradition for portraiture, evident in the diademed busts. The obverse typically features the conjoined busts of Kamnaskires III and Anzaze, often with distinct individual features