KINGS OF THRACE. Lysimachos, 305-281 BC. Drachm (4.17 g, 12 h Ephesos. NGC

Description

Kings of Thrace: Lysimachos Drachm

Date: 305-281 BC
Weight: 4.17 g
Strike Alignment: 12h
Mint: Ephesos
Grade: NGC VF (Very Fine)

Obverse:

• Design: Diademed head of Alexander the Great facing right with the horn of Ammon over his ear.
• Details: Alexander is depicted in a heroic style, often used to emphasize his divine ancestry, with the horn of Ammon symbolizing his claimed descent from the god Zeus-Ammon. This portrait was a common feature on coins issued by Lysimachos, one of Alexander’s generals and successors.

Reverse:

• Design: Athena seated to the left, holding Nike in her right hand and leaning with her left arm on a shield decorated with a lion’s head. Behind her is a transverse spear. In the inner left field, a bee is depicted to the left between the letters E-Φ.
• Inscription: ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ – ΛΥΣΙΜΑΧΟΥ (of King Lysimachos)
• Details: Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war, is depicted in a dignified seated position. She holds Nike, the goddess of victory, who crowns the name of the king, signifying the legitimacy and success of Lysimachos’ reign. The bee and the letters E-Φ indicate the mint location, Ephesos, a city known for its production of high-quality coinage.

Historical Context:

Lysimachos’ Reign:

• Background: Lysimachos was a Macedonian officer and diadochus (successor) of Alexander the Great. After Alexander’s death, he became the ruler of Thrace, Asia Minor, and eventually parts of Macedonia and Greece.
• Significance: The use of Alexander’s image on Lysimachos’ coins was a strategic move to assert his authority and legitimacy by associating himself with Alexander’s legacy. It was also a reminder of his loyalty and service to Alexander during the latter’s conquests.

Ephesos Mint:

• Cultural and Economic Hub: Ephesos was one of the major cities in Ionia, famous for its Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The city was an important economic and cultural center, which made it a significant minting location.
• Symbolism: The bee is a symbol of Ephesos, related to the city’s association with Artemis, whose priestesses were called “Bees.”

Condition and Characteristics:

• Very Fine (VF) Condition: Indicates moderate wear on the high points of the coin with many details remaining sharp and clear. This grade reflects the coin’s extensive historical journey while retaining significant details that make it valuable to collectors.
• Mint Marks and Symbols: The presence of the bee and the letters E-Φ are crucial for identifying the coin’s origin and authenticity. These marks provide insight into the minting practices and local iconography of ancient Ephesos.

Provenance and Collectibility:

• Historical Value: Coins of Lysimachos are highly prized for their historical significance and connection to the era of Alexander the Great and the subsequent Hellenistic period.
• Artistic Merit: The detailed and expressive portraits on Lysimachos’ coins are considered masterpieces of ancient numismatic art. The combination of Alexander’s image and Athena’s dignified pose adds to the coin’s aesthetic and historical appeal.

For further information, please call 212 3191077.