Antiques & Works of Art

Antiques & Works of Art

Lot : A Hellenistic Silver Tetradrachm of Ephesos–Pergamon, 78 BC.

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A Hellenistic Silver Tetradrachm of Ephesos–Pergamon, 78 BC.

A finely struck silver tetradrachm attributed to the Ephesos–Pergamon mint, dated to 78 BC. The obverse presents the traditional cistophoric design: a sacred cista mystica from which a serpent emerges, surrounded by a wreath composed of ivy leaves and berries. The relief remains well defined, with clear detailing to the serpent’s body and the textured pattern of the cista.

The reverse features intertwined serpents flanking a bow case (gorytos), with additional serpentine forms and control symbols arranged symmetrically within a bordered field. The surrounding Greek legend remains partially legible, consistent with late Hellenistic civic issues of western Asia Minor. The surfaces display even wear commensurate with age, with areas of light toning and minor edge irregularities typical of hand-struck coinage of the period.

12.35g

Provenance: Private collection from a distinguished Danish collector.