Tetrobol - Rhoikos

Historical Context: This silver tetrobol was issued by Rhoikos, king of Amathus, a prominent Cypriot city-state, circa 350 BC. Rhoikos reigned during a volatile era, with Cyprus navigating Persian imperial power and rising Greek influence. Issuing such coinage asserted Amathus's sovereignty and economic autonomy, demonstrating its importance. These issues were crucial for facilitating local and regional trade, solidifying Rhoikos's authority and the city's economic standing.

Artistry: The anonymous engraver's work reflects the Late Classical Greek stylistic school, blended with Cypriot iconography. The obverse typically features a dynamic lion attacking a stag, a powerful motif symbolizing strength and royal authority. The reverse commonly depicts the standing figure of Aphrodite, Amathus's principal deity, often identified as Amathusia, holding an attribute. The king's name, Rhoikos, is inscribed in Cypriot syllabic script, essential for historical attribution.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this tetrobol weighs 2.2 grams and measures 14.0 millimeters. Key high-points susceptible to wear or weak strike include the lion's mane and musculature, the stag's antlers, and Aphrodite's facial features and drapery folds. A strong technical strike ensures full detail on both sides, with high-relief elements sharply rendered. While centering and flan shape can vary, a well-preserved specimen exhibits clear legends and strong overall definition, indicative of a quality strike.