Tetradrachm - Patraos

Emisor Kings of Paeonia
Año 335 BC - 315 BC
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valor Tetradrachm (4)
Moneda Drachm (480-286BC)
Composición Silver
Peso 12.69 g
Diámetro 27.0 mm
Grosor
Forma Round (irregular)
Técnica Hammered
Orientación
Grabador(es)
En circulación hasta
Referencia(s)
Descripción del anverso Laureate head of Apollo to right
Escritura del anverso
Leyenda del anverso
Descripción del reverso 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
Escritura del reverso Greek
Leyenda del reverso ΠΑ ΤΡΑΟΥ
Canto
Casa de moneda
Tirada ND (335 BC - 315 BC) - -
ID de Numisquare 2109727540
Información adicional

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.

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