Catalog
| Issuer | Parion (Mysia) |
|---|---|
| Year | 130 BC - 50 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 15.77 g |
| Diameter | 29.5 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | SNG France#1401 , SNG Lewis 1#829 |
| Obverse description | Draped bust of Demeter right, veiled, and wearing grain ears in hair. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Apollo Aktaios, drapery hanging from waist, standing left, holding patera in extended right hand, left hand placed on top of kithara to right, which is standing on omphalos; lit altar to inner left; AΠOΛΛΩNOΣ AKTAIOY to right and left, ΠAPIANΩN/ΠOΛYKΛHΣ in two lines in exergue. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | AΠOΛΛΩNOΣ AKTAIOY ΠAPIANΩN ΠOΛYKΛHΣ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (130 BC - 50 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 6226185390 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver tetradrachm, issued by Parion in Mysia (130-50 BC), illuminates a dynamic late Hellenistic period. Parion, a vital Propontis port, maintained significant economic autonomy amid declining Hellenistic kingdoms and rising Roman influence. The magistrate Polykles, whose name appears, signifies a civic official responsible for minting. This coinage underscores Parion's self-governance and economic prosperity during an era of transition.
Artistry: The artistic execution aligns with the refined Hellenistic stylistic school, blending realism and dramatic expression. While no specific engraver is identified, craftsmanship is notably high. The obverse typically features a striking gorgoneion, a powerful apotropaic symbol with intense facial features and often serpentine hair, reflecting a local cult or civic emblem. The reverse commonly depicts an animal, such as a bull, with anatomical precision, accompanied by Polykles' name and civic monograms.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a substantial silver flan (15.77 grams, 29.5 millimeters), this coin exemplifies robust Hellenistic minting. For optimal grading, high-points include the definition of the gorgoneion's facial features, individual hair/snake strands, and the clarity of the bull's musculature and horns. A well-centered strike, full flan, and minimal die wear are crucial for a superior example, preserving intricate details and original luster, though often patinated.