PAMPHYLIA, Side. Circa 205-100 BC. AR Tetradrachm (27mm, 15.96 g, 12h). St–, magistrate.

Description

Pamphylia, Side Tetradrachm

Date: Circa 205-100 BC
Weight: 15.96 g
Diameter: 27 mm
Strike Alignment: 12h
Grade: VF (Very Fine)

Obverse:

• Design: Helmeted head of Athena facing right.
• Details: Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war, is depicted wearing a helmet, symbolizing her martial prowess. The helmeted Athena is a common motif in Greek coinage, emphasizing the protection and strategic strength of the city-state.

Reverse:

• Design: Nike advancing to the left, holding a wreath. To the left, there is a pomegranate above the letters CT.
• Details: Nike, the goddess of victory, is shown in motion, signifying the act of bestowing victory. The wreath she holds is a traditional symbol of triumph. The pomegranate, a symbol of fertility and abundance, is a local iconography often seen on coins from Side. The letters CT indicate the magistrate or an official mark.

Historical Context:

Pamphylia in the Hellenistic Period:

• Economic and Cultural Significance: Located on the southern coast of modern-day Turkey, Pamphylia was a significant region for trade and cultural exchange. Side, one of its principal cities, was a prosperous center known for its commerce and Hellenistic culture.
• Military and Strategic Importance: The imagery of Athena and Nike on the coin highlights the importance of military strength and victory for the city. These symbols reflect the values and aspirations of the inhabitants of Side during this period.

Significance of the Imagery:

• Athena: Representing wisdom and warfare, Athena’s depiction asserts the city’s protective and strategic capabilities. Her presence on the coin reinforces the cultural and military heritage of the city.
• Nike and the Wreath: The advancing Nike symbolizes active and ongoing victories. The wreath is a token of honor and success, likely celebrating a specific military or athletic triumph.
• Pomegranate: This fruit is associated with fertility, prosperity, and the region’s agricultural richness, indicating the local significance and pride in their produce.

Condition and Characteristics:

• Rough Find Patina: The coin has a patina indicating its age and historical journey. Patina is a thin layer formed on the surface due to oxidation over centuries.
• Flan Flaws and Scratch on Obverse: There are imperfections on the coin blank (flan) and a visible scratch on the obverse side, common in ancient coins due to their manual production and extensive circulation.
• Rotated Double Strike on Reverse: The reverse side shows a rotated double strike, a minting error where the coin was struck twice but not perfectly aligned, resulting in a slight overlapping of the design. This adds a unique characteristic to the coin.

Provenance and Collectibility:

• Rarity: Coins from Side are notable for their historical and artistic value. The tetradrachms from this period are particularly sought after by collectors for their detailed depictions and historical significance.
• Condition Grade VF: Very Fine condition indicates that the coin has moderate wear with all major details clear. Despite the flaws and patina, the coin retains significant historical and aesthetic value.

For further information, please call 212 3191077.