Catalogue
| Émetteur | Metropolis |
|---|---|
| Année | 225 BC - 175 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | Trichalkon (1⁄16) |
| Devise | Drachm |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Poids | 7.65 g |
| Diamètre | 19.0 mm |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | BCD Thessaly II#482.1, HGC 4#257, BCD Thessaly I#1208.1, Rogers#411, SNG Munich 12#119 |
| Description de l’avers | Laureate head of Apollo facing right |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | |
| Légende de l’avers | |
| Description du revers | Forepart of man-headed bull left, head right with a monogram to the left |
| Écriture du revers | Greek |
| Légende du revers |
ΜΗΤΡΟΠΟΛΙΤΩΝ (Translation: The Metropolitans) |
| Tranche | |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
ND (225 BC - 175 BC) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 2374686210 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
Historical Context: This Trichalkon was issued by Metropolis in Thessaly, dated 225 BC to 175 BC. This Hellenistic period saw Thessaly caught between Macedonian decline and Roman expansion. As a city within the Thessalian League, Metropolis exercised civic autonomy by striking local bronze coinage. The Trichalkon, a triple chalkous, was essential for local commerce, reflecting the city's economic self-sufficiency during significant regional political and military upheaval.
Artistry: The engraver remains anonymous, typical for civic bronze issues of this era. The coin adheres to the Hellenistic Greek stylistic school, emphasizing naturalism and dignified representation. Thessalian bronzes often depicted prominent deities or local symbols, like horses or river gods, embodying civic pride and religious devotion. The 19mm diameter allowed for reasonable detail, showcasing the period's expressive yet conventional iconography, less intricate than contemporary silver.
Technical/Grading: High-points for wear on Hellenistic bronzes include highest relief areas: hair, facial features, or animal musculature. A strong strike yields crisp details. Technical qualities vary; off-centering, planchet irregularities, or minor flan cracks are common. Die wear can also soften details. A strong strike, good centering, and a sound flan are paramount for a high-grade example, fully revealing the coin's intended artistry and historical integrity.