Katalog
| Emittent | Athens |
|---|---|
| Jahr | 97 BC - 96 BC |
| Typ | Standard circulation coin |
| Nennwert | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Währung | Drachm |
| Material | Silver |
| Gewicht | 15.76 g |
| Durchmesser | 28 mm |
| Dicke | |
| Form | Round (irregular) |
| Prägetechnik | Hammered |
| Ausrichtung | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Stempelschneider | |
| Im Umlauf bis | |
| Referenz(en) | Thompson#951b 4#1602 |
| Aversbeschreibung | Helmeted head of Athena Parthenos right. |
|---|---|
| Aversschrift | |
| Averslegende | |
| Reversbeschreibung | Owl standing right, head facing, on amphora; magistrates’ names in fields; gorgoneion to right; H on amphora, ΠE below; all within wreath. |
| Reversschrift | Greek |
| Reverslegende | |
| Rand | |
| Prägestätte | |
| Auflage |
ND (97 BC - 96 BC) - - |
| Numisquare-ID | 4355762210 |
| Zusätzliche Informationen |
Historical Context: This Athenian New Style Tetradrachm, issued 97-96 BC under magistrates Niketes, Dionysios, and Xeno..., dates to a period of Athenian prosperity and civic autonomy amidst growing Roman influence. Though no longer a military power, Athens' economic and cultural prestige ensured its coinage remained vital for international trade. The magistrates' names underscore the city's self-governance and leading citizens.
Artistry: Reflecting Hellenistic tradition, the obverse features a finely rendered head of Athena Parthenos, right, wearing a richly decorated Attic helmet, often with a griffin. While engravers are unknown, the style is consistently high quality. The reverse displays the iconic Athenian owl on an amphora, flanked by the three magistrates' names and a distinctive civic or personal symbol, with a monthly letter. This design maintained continuity while incorporating contemporary elements.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver to 15.76 grams and 28 mm, this issue adheres to the Attic standard. Key high-points for evaluation include Athena's helmet crest, eye, and cheek, and the owl's breast feathers, eyes, and the clarity of the magistrates' names and symbols. A well-struck example exhibits full detail on Athena's helmet ornamentation and a clear, complete rendering of the owl and amphora, with minimal flan flaws or off-centering.