Tetradrachm - Polykles

Đơn vị phát hành Parion (Mysia)
Năm 130 BC - 50 BC
Loại Standard circulation coin
Mệnh giá Tetradrachm (4)
Tiền tệ Drachm
Chất liệu Silver
Trọng lượng 15.77 g
Đường kính 29.5 mm
Độ dày
Hình dạng Round (irregular)
Kỹ thuật Hammered
Hướng Medal alignment ↑↑
Nghệ nhân khắc
Lưu hành đến
Tài liệu tham khảo SNG France#1401 , SNG Lewis 1#829
Mô tả mặt trước Draped bust of Demeter right, veiled, and wearing grain ears in hair.
Chữ viết mặt trước
Chữ khắc mặt trước
Mô tả mặt sau 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.
Chữ viết mặt sau Greek
Chữ khắc mặt sau AΠOΛΛΩNOΣ AKTAIOY ΠAPIANΩN ΠOΛYKΛHΣ
Cạnh
Xưởng đúc
Số lượng đúc ND (130 BC - 50 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 6226185390
Thông tin bổ sung

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.

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