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

Ionia: Ephesus

Denomination: AR Tetradrachm
Date: Ca. 4th century BC
Magistrate: Amyntes
Weight: Not specified
Diameter: 23 mm
Orientation: 11h

Obverse:

• Design: Bee with straight wings seen from above
• Legend: E-Φ (indicating the magistrate and city)

Reverse:

• Design: Forepart of stag kneeling right, head reverted; palm tree to left
• Legend: AMYNTHΣ (name of the magistrate)

References:

• Kinns, Ephesus, Pixodarus Hoard in: Coin Hoards IX (2002), Class H, pg. 204

Condition:

• Grading: NGC Choice Fine

Historical Context:

The tetradrachms of Ephesus from the 4th century BC reflect the city’s importance in Ionia and its continued prosperity during the classical period. Ephesus, a prominent city-state in ancient Ionia, was known for its rich history and significant role in trade and culture.

Amyntes, the magistrate under whose authority this coin was minted, played a crucial role in local governance and administration. The bee on the obverse symbolizes the industrious nature of the city and its connection to Artemis, the goddess worshipped in Ephesus. The forepart of the stag on the reverse is a symbol of Artemis and her sacred animals, reinforcing the city’s religious and cultural identity.

The palm tree further emphasizes the city’s association with fertility and prosperity. The coin’s design and inscriptions reflect the city’s pride in its religious heritage and its continued economic and administrative importance in the region.

These coins were likely used in various commercial transactions and were a testament to Ephesus’s wealth and influence during the 4th century BC. The reference to the Pixodarus Hoard in Coin Hoards IX indicates that these coins were part of significant hoards found in the region, emphasizing their historical and numismatic value.

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