Lot 2326
Attica, Athens. Silver Tetradrachm (16.6 g), ca. 165-42 BC. Struck 165/4 BC. Ippon or Gnosias(?), and Athen…, magistrate. Head of Athena right, wearing triple crested Attic helmet decorated with Pegasos springing right; on neckguard, minute biga without driver. Reverse A-ΘE, owl standing right, head facing, on overturned amphora; across field, magistrate's names IΠωN(?) and AΘ in monogram form; all within laurel wreath. Thompson 3a = SNG von Post 100 (same obv. die); Anthedon Hoard pl. IX, 8-9. Possible small chip missing at 12 o'clock. Nicely toned and Very rare early issue. Very Fine.
This coin is an example of the very first issue of New Style Athenian tetradrachms, without symbol, and is very rare. Neither Beulé nor Svoronos was aware of it, but there was one in the Lambros collection, and in 1935 several further specimens turned up in the Anthedon Hoard. Of particular note is the inclusion of a minute biga with or without driver on the neckguard of Athena's helmet. As it does appear on another later New Style tetradrachm, it should probably be interpreted as a die-cutter's signature.
Estimated Value $500 - 600.
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| Realized $1,528 |
