Catalog
| Issuer | Kierion |
|---|---|
| Year | 350 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Trihemiobol (1/4) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.24 g |
| Diameter | 14 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | BCD Thessaly II#103.1 |
| Obverse description | Head of the nymph Arne right wearing triple pendant earring and necklace, border of dots. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Arne, her hair done up and tied in a small bun at the top of her head, half-kneeling to her left, playing with knucklebones to her right. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | ΚΙΕΡΙ ΕΙΩΝ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (-350) - Mid 4th century BC - |
| Numisquare ID | 4100259370 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver Trihemiobol, issued by the Thessalian city of Kierion around 350 BC, links to a pivotal era. Thessaly balanced local autonomy with rising Macedonian influence under Philip II. Fractional denominations like this were crucial for daily commerce within Kierion’s economy, underscoring the city-state's independent civic administration and its role in regional trade before Macedonian consolidation.
Artistry: The coin’s design exemplifies the refined Classical Greek style prevalent in Thessaly. While the engraver is anonymous, their skill is evident. The obverse features a finely rendered head of the eponymous nymph Kierie, facing slightly left, adorned with an elegant ampyx. The reverse displays the forepart of a spirited horse, a motif associated with Thessaly's equestrian culture, accompanied by the city's ethnic inscription, KIERIEON.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a compact 14 mm flan, weighing 1.24 grams, this Trihemiobol’s technical execution is critical. Key high-points include the nymph's facial features, especially her nose and ampyx, and the horse's mane and musculature. A well-struck example exhibits strong centering, a full impression of both devices, and a clear, complete legend, despite challenges inherent in striking small, high-relief flans.