Catalog
| Issuer | Tegea |
|---|---|
| Year | 250 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Trichalkon = 3 Chalkoi = 1⁄16 Drachm |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 3.77 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | BCD Peloponnesos#1735 |
| Obverse description | Head of Athena facing slightly left, wearing a triple-crested Attic helmet and a necklace. Inscription to the left |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Greek |
| Obverse lettering | ΘΕΟΦ |
| Reverse description | The infant Telephos kneeling right, suckled by doe standing left and with his head facing right |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | ΤΕΓΕΑ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (-250) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 2164552070 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued by Tegea around 250 BC, this trichalkon originates from a significant Arcadian city during the turbulent Hellenistic period. Tegea, in the Peloponnese, navigated complex political landscapes, balancing independence with alliances or subjugation by powers like Sparta or the Achaean League. This bronze denomination reflects Tegea's need for local currency to facilitate daily commerce and assert economic autonomy amidst regional shifts and frequent military engagements, where bronze coinage was vital for internal transactions.
Artistry: While the specific engraver remains anonymous, typical for bronze issues, the coin exemplifies the Hellenistic stylistic school, blending classical ideals with developing realism. The obverse likely features a dignified portrayal of Athena, possibly wearing a Corinthian helmet, a common patron deity for Tegean coinage, rendered with detail. The reverse typically displays a local emblem such as an owl, symbolic of wisdom, or an attribute of Herakles, a hero with strong regional connections, accompanied by the city's ethnic inscription.
Technical/Grading: This bronze trichalkon, weighing 3.77 grams, often presents characteristic technical qualities of its period. High-points for wear or strike weakness typically include the crest of Athena's helmet, her facial features, and the breast feathers or eyes of an owl on the reverse. The flan itself may exhibit irregularity, and the strike can vary from centralized and sharp to slightly off-center or weak in areas, particularly around the legends or peripheral motifs, reflecting the manual striking process.