Catalog
| Issuer | Kings of Paeonia |
|---|---|
| Year | 335 BC - 315 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Drachm (480-286BC) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 12.69 g |
| Diameter | 27.0 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) |
| Obverse description | Laureate head of Apollo to right |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Paeonian horseman, wearing crested helmet and full armor, galloping right and spearing fallen Persian cavalryman wearing kybasia and robeslat kausia, and holding a round shield. Below horse’s tail, thunderbolt and to right, bunch of grapes |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | ΠΑ ΤΡΑΟΥ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (335 BC - 315 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 2109727540 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver tetradrachm, issued between 335 BC and 315 BC, belongs to the reign of Patraos, King of Paeonia. Situated north of Macedon, Paeonia navigated a complex geopolitical landscape in the turbulent aftermath of Alexander the Great's conquests and the subsequent Wars of the Diadochi. Patraos's coinage represents a crucial assertion of Paeonian sovereignty and economic independence, reflecting a period of relative stability for the kingdom amidst larger Hellenistic powers.
Artistry: While the specific engraver remains anonymous, the artistry reflects dominant Hellenistic stylistic trends with a distinct Paeonian character. The obverse typically features a finely rendered head of Apollo, laureate and facing right, executed with classical grace. The reverse often depicts a dynamic Paeonian horseman, possibly the king himself, galloping or spearing a foe, embodying martial prowess and royal authority. This design blends Greek mythological influence with local heroic iconography, characteristic of regional Hellenistic mints.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a substantial 27.0 mm flan of 12.69 grams of silver, the technical quality of Patraos's tetradrachms can vary. High-points susceptible to wear include Apollo's hair and nose, and on the reverse, the horseman's head and the horse's forelock. A well-struck example will exhibit full detail on Apollo's intricate hair and laurel wreath, alongside the horseman's musculature and horse's harness. Centering is typically good, though minor off-strikes occur. High relief contributes to artistic impact but also vulnerability to circulation wear.