Catalogus
| Beschrijving voorzijde | Laureate head of Zeus to right |
|---|---|
| Schrift voorzijde | |
| Opschrift voorzijde | |
| Beschrijving keerzijde | Vine branch with bunch of grapes and two leaves. Above it grapes and below branch to the left, the letter Λ |
| Schrift keerzijde | Greek |
| Opschrift keerzijde | ΡΙΖΟΥΣΙΩΝ |
| Rand | |
| Muntplaats | |
| Oplage |
ND (352 BC - 344 BC) - - |
| Numisquare-ID | 8999979250 |
| Aanvullende informatie |
Historical Context: This Trichalkon was issued during the tumultuous reign of Rhizos, tyrant of Pherae, spanning 352-344 BC. This period in Thessaly was marked by intense political instability, with various city-states vying for dominance and the looming threat of Philip II of Macedon's expansionist policies. Rhizos, like other Thessalian dynasts, would have utilized local bronze coinage to support daily economic transactions, pay mercenaries, and assert his authority in a region frequently embroiled in conflict. The issuance of such coins reflects the localized economic needs and political fragmentation of the era, prior to the full Macedonian subjugation of Thessaly.
Artistry: The artistry of this Trichalkon, while generally characteristic of late Classical Greek regional bronze issues, would have been executed by anonymous local engravers. Thessalian coinage frequently depicted themes relevant to the region, such as equestrian motifs, reflecting the famed Thessalian cavalry, or local deities and heroes. Common obverse types include the head of a nymph (e.g., Larissa) or a hero, while reverses often feature a horse or a horseman. The stylistic school adheres to the broader Classical aesthetic, prioritizing clear, if sometimes simplified, forms suitable for utilitarian currency rather than the intricate detail found on contemporary silver issues.
Technical/Grading: This bronze Trichalkon, weighing 7.94 grams and measuring 18.0 millimeters, typically exhibits a solid, though sometimes irregular, flan. Strike quality for such regional bronze issues can vary significantly; off-centering is not uncommon, and pressure may have been uneven, leading to areas of weakness. High-points, such as the hair or facial features of an obverse portrait, or the musculature of an equine reverse, are particularly susceptible to wear or incomplete striking. The bronze fabric is prone to environmental corrosion, which can obscure finer details and legends, making well-preserved examples with clear design elements and original surfaces highly desirable.