Roma Numismatics Ltd
E-Sale 102 3 Nov 2022
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Greek PB Token or Talisman(?). Seleukid period, temp. Antiochos I-V, 281-162 BC. Cruciform inscription T-A-P-Σ(retrograde)-H within border of dots / Apollo seated to left on omphalos, holding arrow in his right hand and resting his left on grounded bow; BAΣIΛEΩΣ ANTIOXOY to right and left. For rev. type, cf. HGC 9, 128 (Antiochos I Soter). 21.86g, 28mm, 12h.
Condition as seen; two edge grooves, the result of previously being attached to something.
The obverse inscription of this lead artefact might refer to the Cilician city of Tarsos (ΤΑΡΣΗΝΩΝ) or is perhaps the name of its owner (Tarse, TAPΣΗ). The reverse is drawn directly from the numismatic iconography of the Seleukid Empire and names Antiochos, the dynastic name adopted by many of its kings. The Apollo on omphalos type gained prominence under Antiochos I, publicizing his supposed descent from the god, and became the characteristic reverse type for most Seleukid precious metal coinage down through the reign of Antiochos IV.
Condition as seen; two edge grooves, the result of previously being attached to something.
The obverse inscription of this lead artefact might refer to the Cilician city of Tarsos (ΤΑΡΣΗΝΩΝ) or is perhaps the name of its owner (Tarse, TAPΣΗ). The reverse is drawn directly from the numismatic iconography of the Seleukid Empire and names Antiochos, the dynastic name adopted by many of its kings. The Apollo on omphalos type gained prominence under Antiochos I, publicizing his supposed descent from the god, and became the characteristic reverse type for most Seleukid precious metal coinage down through the reign of Antiochos IV.