Catalogo
| Emittente | Parthian Empire |
|---|---|
| Anno | 1 BC |
| Tipo | Standard circulation coin |
| Valore | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Valuta | Drachm (247 BC-224 AD) |
| Composizione | Silver |
| Peso | 11.11 g |
| Diametro | |
| Spessore | |
| Forma | Round (irregular) |
| Tecnica | Hammered |
| Orientamento | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Incisore/i | |
| In circolazione fino al | |
| Riferimento/i | Sellwood#58.4-6, Shore#323 |
| Descrizione del dritto | Diademed bust left with long and tapering bead, wart on brow, short hair, ear and earring visible, wearing spiral torque, flying Nike in front, year date BIT (312 SEM) set in diadem ends, all flanked by two-line inscription BACI??OC BACI??ON. |
|---|---|
| Scrittura del dritto | Greek |
| Legenda del dritto | |
| Descrizione del rovescio | Queen`s bust in tiara with double loop right, flying Nike in front, abbreviated month name ?AN (Xandikos, Apr./May AD 1, reading from outside) set in diadem ends, around, four-line inscription, TEAC OYPANIAC MOYCHC BACI?ICHC |
| Scrittura del rovescio | Greek |
| Legenda del rovescio | |
| Bordo | Smooth |
| Zecca | |
| Tiratura |
312 (1 BC) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 2599356280 |
| Informazioni aggiuntive |
Historical Context: This Tetradrachm, struck in 1 BC, documents the highly unusual co-rule of Phraates V and his mother, Musa, within the Parthian Empire. Musa, a former Roman slave, ascended to queen and regent, a remarkable and controversial rise. Her prominent depiction alongside her son on coinage is unprecedented for a Parthian queen, signaling a period of significant political instability and Roman influence. This issue serves as a critical numismatic record of a unique power dynamic preceding their overthrow.
Artistry: The obverse typically features jugate busts of Phraates V, adorned with his royal tiara, and Musa, wearing a diadem, reflecting a blend of Parthian and Hellenistic portraiture. While the engraver is anonymous, the style adheres to late Parthian numismatic tradition, characterized by stylized yet recognizable royal effigies. The reverse usually depicts Phraates V enthroned, receiving a palm from Tyche, a common motif emphasizing divine favor. Greek legends further underscore the Hellenistic cultural overlay.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver to a standard weight of 11.11 grams, this tetradrachm exhibits variable strike quality typical of the era. Key high-points for wear and strike assessment include Phraates V's tiara and Musa's diadem and hair on the obverse, and the figures' faces and drapery on the reverse. Centering can often be an issue, leading to incomplete legends. Strong examples show full, well-defined portraits and clear reverse details, free from significant planchet flaws or excessive die wear.