Tetradrachm - Theophra..., Sotas... and Phala...

Emittent Athens
Jahr 130 BC - 129 BC
Typ Standard circulation coin
Nennwert Tetradrachm (4)
Währung Drachm
Material Silver
Gewicht 16.98 g
Durchmesser
Dicke
Form Round (irregular)
Prägetechnik Hammered
Ausrichtung Variable alignment ↺
Stempelschneider
Im Umlauf bis
Referenz(en) Thompson#409g
Aversbeschreibung Helmeted head of Athena right.
Aversschrift
Averslegende
Reversbeschreibung Owl standing right, head facing, on amphora; magistrates’ names in fields, winged thunderbolt to left, N on amphora, ΣΦ below; all within wreath.
Reversschrift Greek
Reverslegende
Rand
Prägestätte
Auflage ND (130 BC - 129 BC) - -
Numisquare-ID 6921931750
Zusätzliche Informationen

Historical Context: Struck 130-129 BC, this Athenian "New Style" Tetradrachm reflects Athens' enduring economic power and civic identity in the Hellenistic period. Issued under magistrates Theophrastos, Sotas, and Phalanthos (Thompson 409g), these coins facilitated international trade. Despite growing Roman influence, Athens maintained its right to mint high-quality silver currency, underscoring its status as a cultural and commercial hub. Magistrates' names provide precise annual dating.

Artistry: The design adheres to the Hellenistic aesthetic, blending classical reverence with contemporary refinement. The obverse features the majestic head of Athena Parthenos, right, wearing an elaborate Attic helmet, often with a Pegasos. Engravers remain anonymous, but the stylistic school emphasizes a dignified, idealized portrayal. The reverse displays the iconic Athenian owl, standing right on an amphora, flanked by an olive branch and the three magistrates' names, symbolizing the city's enduring heritage.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a 16.98-gram silver flan, consistent with the Attic standard, this tetradrachm exhibits typical series qualities. Key high-points for wear include Athena's helmet crest and device, earlobe, and facial features. On the reverse, sharpness of the owl's breast feathers, eyes, and details of the olive branch and amphora are crucial. A well-preserved example shows strong, clear strikes on these critical areas, ensuring legibility of all design elements and magistrates' names.

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