Catálogo
| Emisor | Athens |
|---|---|
| Año | 97 BC - 96 BC |
| Tipo | Standard circulation coin |
| Valor | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Moneda | Drachm |
| Composición | Silver |
| Peso | 15.76 g |
| Diámetro | 28 mm |
| Grosor | |
| Forma | Round (irregular) |
| Técnica | Hammered |
| Orientación | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Grabador(es) | |
| En circulación hasta | |
| Referencia(s) | Thompson#951b 4#1602 |
| Descripción del anverso | Helmeted head of Athena Parthenos right. |
|---|---|
| Escritura del anverso | |
| Leyenda del anverso | |
| Descripción del reverso | Owl standing right, head facing, on amphora; magistrates’ names in fields; gorgoneion to right; H on amphora, ΠE below; all within wreath. |
| Escritura del reverso | Greek |
| Leyenda del reverso | |
| Canto | |
| Casa de moneda | |
| Tirada |
ND (97 BC - 96 BC) - - |
| ID de Numisquare | 4355762210 |
| Información adicional |
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.