Catalog
| Issuer | Argos |
|---|---|
| Year | 90 BC - 50 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Triobol (1/2) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 2.49 g |
| Diameter | 15 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Peloponnesos#1161 Lockett#2505 |
| Obverse description | Forepart of wolf at bay to right. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Large A; Λ-EY/K-I/O-Σ in three lines around, herm below crossbar; all within incuse square. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | Λ EY K I O Σ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (90 BC - 50 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1833306220 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The Triobol of Leykios from Argos, 90-50 BC, emerges from the late Hellenistic era, a period of transition and Roman expansion. Argos, a significant Peloponnesian city, maintained civic autonomy, with magistrates like Leykios overseeing coinage. This silver denomination was crucial for local commerce, symbolizing Argos's economic independence and self-governance amidst growing external pressures from Rome, reflecting a city striving to preserve its identity.
Artistry: The Triobol's anonymous engraver worked within late Hellenistic stylistic traditions, blending classical Greek forms with increasing realism. Designs, likely featuring a patron deity or local symbol, would have been executed with skill typical of Greek city-states. This artistry conveyed civic pride and religious devotion, even on this smaller fractional issue, reflecting a continuing commitment to numismatic quality.
Technical/Grading: This 2.49g, 15mm silver Triobol requires careful technical assessment. High-points for wear typically include the highest relief areas, such as hair or facial features on an obverse portrait, or musculature on a reverse figure. A premium example displays a well-centered strike, full details from fresh dies, and minimal flan defects. Off-center strikes or significant die wear, common for ancient coinage, would diminish its aesthetic appeal and grade.