Katalog
| Emittent | Larissa |
|---|---|
| Jahr | 356 BC - 342 BC |
| Typ | Standard circulation coin |
| Nennwert | Trihemiobol (1/4) |
| Währung | Drachm |
| Material | Silver |
| Gewicht | 1.11 g |
| Durchmesser | |
| Dicke | |
| Form | Round (irregular) |
| Prägetechnik | Hammered |
| Ausrichtung | |
| Stempelschneider | |
| Im Umlauf bis | |
| Referenz(en) | BCD Thessaly I#1138 |
| Aversbeschreibung | Head of the nymph Larissa to right, wearing a single-pendent earring and with her hair rolled and bound with a thin ribbon |
|---|---|
| Aversschrift | |
| Averslegende | |
| Reversbeschreibung | Half-length and bearded bust of Asklepios to right, drapery over his left shoulder and around his waist, his left hand raised, holding a sickle |
| Reversschrift | Greek |
| Reverslegende | ΛΑΡΙ |
| Rand | |
| Prägestätte | |
| Auflage |
ND (356 BC - 342 BC) - - |
| Numisquare-ID | 6848359410 |
| Zusätzliche Informationen |
Historical Context: This silver Trihemiobol was issued by the city of Larissa in Thessaly between 356 BC and 342 BC, a period of significant geopolitical flux in ancient Greece. During these years, Larissa maintained its status as a leading city of the Thessalian League, navigating the increasing influence and military might of Philip II of Macedon. While larger denominations served inter-regional trade, this fractional coin was vital for daily commerce within Larissa and its immediate environs, reflecting a vibrant local economy. Its issuance predates the full Macedonian subjugation of Thessaly, representing a period of relative autonomy and robust civic identity for Larissa.
Artistry: The coinage of Larissa is celebrated for its distinctive artistic style, particularly its depictions of the eponymous nymph Larissa and horses. While specific engravers for such smaller denominations are rarely known, the artistry reflects the prevalent Late Classical Greek aesthetic of the region. The obverse typically features a finely rendered head of the nymph Larissa, often facing, with her hair flowing freely, embodying grace and naturalism. The reverse commonly displays a horse or horse's head, an animal central to Thessalian identity and economy, depicted with dynamic energy and anatomical precision, even within the confines of a small flan.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this Trihemiobol weighs 1.11 grams, consistent with the standard for this denomination. For a well-preserved example, the high-points of the obverse design would include the nymph's hair, nose, and chin. On the reverse, the horse's mane, eye, and muzzle would show the most wear. Technical strike qualities can vary; however, premium examples exhibit a strong, centered strike, revealing crisp details in the nymph's features and the horse's musculature, with minimal die wear. Minor flan irregularities or slight off-centering are common for these smaller, rapidly produced issues, but do not detract from a coin's overall appeal if the primary design elements are well-preserved.