Catalog
| Issuer | Ainianes |
|---|---|
| Year | 80 BC - 40 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Trihemidrachm (3⁄2) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 7.59 g |
| Diameter | 22.0 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | SNG Copenhagen#12 |
| Obverse description | Head of Athena to right wearing Attic helmet decorated with tendril, pegasus and four horse protomes |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Phemios as a slinger, nude but for chlamys over his shoulder and sword in scabbard, shooting sling to right. Behind, leaning against his right leg, two spears and to right, wheat ear on stalk |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | ΑΙΝΙΑΝΩΝ ΛΕΥΚΙΔΑ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (80 BC - 40 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 5229463960 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Trihemidrachm, issued by the Ainianes between 80 BC and 40 BC, represents a fascinating period of local autonomy amidst the encroaching Roman influence in Thessaly. The magistrate Leukidas of Hypata, a significant Ainianian city, oversaw its production, signifying the continued assertion of local identity and economic agency. During this tumultuous era, marked by Roman civil wars and shifting regional power dynamics, the Ainianes, a prominent tribal group, maintained their right to issue coinage, often reflecting their strategic position and cultural heritage.
Artistry: While the specific engraver remains anonymous, typical Ainianian coinage from this period often adheres to a late Hellenistic stylistic tradition, blending classical ideals with a more robust, regional execution. The design, though not specified here, would likely feature a prominent deity such as Zeus or Athena on the obverse, possibly paired with a local hero or symbolic animal, such as a bull or horse, on the reverse, reflecting Thessalian iconography. The magistrate's name, Leukidas, would be prominently displayed, attesting to his authority.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this substantial Trihemidrachm weighs 7.59 grams and measures 22.0 millimeters, indicating a significant denomination. For grading, high-points would typically include the hair and facial features of any obverse deity or the musculature of a reverse figure. A well-struck example would exhibit sharp details throughout, with a centered strike and good metal flow, free from significant planchet flaws. Variations in strike quality are common for provincial issues of this period, but strong examples demonstrate commendable craftsmanship.