Catalog
| Issuer | Abydos |
|---|---|
| Year | 100 BC - 65 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Attic drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 16.16 g |
| Diameter | 29 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | CN type#3271 |
| Obverse description | Draped bust of Artemis to right,with bow and quiver over her shoulder. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Eagle standing right with spread wings; to right, thunderbolt and above eight-rayed star; all within laurel wreath. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | ABYΔHNΩN ΟΝΗΣΙΑΝΑΚΤΟΣ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (100 BC - 65 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 5902892170 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Tetradrachm, issued by Abydos (100-65 BC), dates to a tumultuous late Hellenistic period defined by Roman expansion and the Mithridatic Wars. Abydos, a vital Hellespont city, retained civic autonomy, enabling its coinage. Magistrate Onesianax, whose name appears, was a prominent local official overseeing minting. Issuing a substantial silver tetradrachm highlights Abydos's economic importance and regional trade, reflecting resilience amidst significant geopolitical instability.
Artistry: The anonymous engraver's work reflects refined, yet conservative, late Hellenistic civic artistry. The obverse typically features a dignified portrait of a local patron deity, like Apollo or Artemis, blending classical idealism with Hellenistic realism, evident in detailed features. The reverse commonly displays a civic emblem, perhaps an eagle or cult statue, alongside the city's ethnic and Onesianax's name. The design adheres to established iconography, ensuring widespread recognition and trust.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this tetradrachm weighs 16.16 grams and measures 29 millimeters, providing a broad flan. Optimal grading requires a strong, well-centered strike, preserving high points: the deity's hair and forehead on the obverse, and the eagle's breast/wingtips on the reverse. Minor flan imperfections or slight off-centering are typical. Its substantial weight, though slightly below earlier Attic standards, confirms significant purchasing power and commitment to a stable currency.