Catalog
| Issuer | Delphi |
|---|---|
| Year | 479 BC - 475 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tridrachm (3) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 18 g |
| Diameter | 27 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | HGC 4#1116, BCD Lokris#376, ACGC#413, Kraay&Hirm#461, SvoronosDl#18, Rosen#173 |
| Obverse description | Two rhyta (drinking vessels) in the form of rams’ heads; above, two dolphins confronted; ΔAΛΦ-I-KON in small letters below; all within beaded border |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Greek |
| Obverse lettering | ΔAΛΦIKON |
| Reverse description | Quadripartite incuse square in the form of a coffered ceiling; each coffer decorated with a dolphin and laurel spray, giving the appearance of the dolphins swimming toward the center of the die. |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (479 BC - 475 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 6424688350 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Struck by the Amphictyonic League at Delphi between 479 and 475 BC, this silver Tridrachm dates to the immediate aftermath of the Persian Wars. As the preeminent panhellenic sanctuary of Apollo, Delphi wielded immense religious authority. This substantial denomination highlights Delphi's significant financial resources, likely for temple maintenance, funding the Pythian Games, or post-war reconstruction, affirming its enduring influence as a spiritual and economic center in the nascent Classical era.
Artistry: Though the engraver is anonymous, this Tridrachm exemplifies the Early Classical or Severe Style. The obverse typically features a finely rendered ram's head, depicted with naturalistic yet solemn gravitas, characteristic of the period's departure from Archaic conventions. The reverse commonly displays a tripod, the sacred emblem of the Delphic Oracle, set within a linear incuse square. The design prioritizes clarity and idealized form, reflecting the austere aesthetic prevalent in Greek art during this transitional phase.
Technical/Grading: Weighing 18 grams and measuring 27 millimeters, this Tridrachm is a substantial silver coin. Key high-points for wear include the ram's horns and eye on the obverse, and the tripod's legs and bowl on the reverse. A superior example exhibits a strong, centered strike, fully rendering the ram's fleece and tripod's structure, with minimal flan imperfections or die wear. Technical quality reflects the careful craftsmanship typical of issues from major sanctuaries.