Catálogo
| Emissor | Kings of Pontos |
|---|---|
| Ano | 220 BC - 200 BC |
| Tipo | Standard circulation coin |
| Valor | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Moeda | Drachm |
| Composição | Silver |
| Peso | 16.86 g |
| Diâmetro | 34 mm |
| Espessura | |
| Formato | Round (irregular) |
| Técnica | Hammered |
| Orientação | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Gravador(es) | |
| Em circulação até | |
| Referência(s) |
| Descrição do anverso | Diademed and draped bust of Mithradates to right. |
|---|---|
| Escrita do anverso | |
| Legenda do anverso | |
| Descrição do reverso | Zeus seated to left on a high-backed throne, holding a long scepter with his left hand and, in his extended right, an eagle with closed wings standing to right; in the inner field to left, below his extended hand, eight-pointed star within a crescent; below throne, monogram of EMΠ; in the inner field to right, B over monogram of ΡΑ. |
| Escrita do reverso | Greek |
| Legenda do reverso |
ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ MIΘ PAΔATOY (Translation: King Mithradates) |
| Bordo | |
| Casa da moeda | |
| Tiragem |
ND (220 BC - 200 BC) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 6725121130 |
| Informações adicionais |
Historical Context: This Tetradrachm, issued by the Kings of Pontos (220 BC - 200 BC), represents Mithradates III's reign. During this pivotal Hellenistic period, Pontos consolidated power amidst Alexander's successor states. Mithradates III was crucial in establishing the kingdom's independence and expanding its Black Sea influence. His coinage served as vital propaganda, asserting legitimacy and projecting the monarchy's strength, laying foundations for future regional ambitions.
Artistry: The design exemplifies sophisticated Hellenistic artistic traditions. While the engraver is anonymous, the stylistic school favors dynamic, idealized portraiture. The obverse likely features a powerful depiction of Mithradates III, with majestic, realistic features, often flowing hair and a royal diadem, conveying divine favor and regal authority. The reverse typically displays a prominent deity, like a seated Zeus holding an eagle and scepter, rendered with classical proportions, symbolizing divine protection and royal piety.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver to 16.86 gg and 34 mm, this coin adheres to the Attic standard. Key high-points for grading on the obverse include the ruler's hair, diadem, and facial contours. On the reverse, the deity's head, limbs, and drapery folds are critical. A well-struck example exhibits sharp details across these areas, indicative of strong die pressure and careful centering on a well-prepared flan. Strike quality and die wear variations impact finer detail preservation.