IONIA. Ephesus. Ca. 4th century BC. AR tetradrachm (23mm, 14.99 gm, 11h). NGC

Description

IONIA. Ephesus. Ca. 4th Century BC. AR Tetradrachm

– **Diameter:** 23 mm
– **Weight:** 14.99 g
– **Die Alignment:** 11h

**Obverse:**
– **Inscription:** E-Φ
– **Design:** Bee with straight wings seen from above.

**Reverse:**
– **Inscription:** BAΛAIΘOΣ
– **Design:** Forepart of a stag kneeling right with its head reverted; a palm tree behind.

**Catalog References:**
– BMC: Not listed
– SNG Copenhagen: Not listed
– Kinns, Ephesus, Pixodarus Hoard in: Coin Hoards IX (2002), Class C, pg. 176

**Condition:**
– NGC Grade: Fine (F) 4/5 – 3/5, with marks.

**Historical Context:**
This tetradrachm from Ephesus, minted during the 4th century BC, features the bee and the stag, both significant symbols in Ephesian iconography. The bee represents the goddess Artemis, who was venerated in Ephesus, while the stag symbolizes her sacred animal. Balaithus, the magistrate whose name appears on the reverse, was responsible for the coin’s production. This period in Ephesus was marked by prosperity and the flourishing of arts and culture, with coinage being a vital part of its economic system.

**For further information, please call 212 3191077**