Roma Numismatics Ltd
Auction XXVII 22-23 Mar 2023
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Seleukid Empire, Seleukos I Nikator AV Stater. In the name and types of Alexander III of Macedon. Babylon, circa 311-300 BC. Head of Athena to right, wearing triple-crested Corinthian helmet / Nike standing to left, holding wreath and stylis; BAΣIΛE[ΩΣ] to left, AΛEΞANΔPOY to right, [MI] to outer left field, MHP monogram in wreath at feet to left. SC 81.3 var. (sphinx on helmet); Price 3749 var. (same); SNG Copenhagen 638 var. (same); Waggoner, Babylon 258k var. (same); Nomos 13, 171 (same dies). 8.56g, 18mm, 11h.
Good Extremely Fine. Extremely Rare.
Ex Solidus Numismatik, Auction 49, 17 November 2019, lot 10.
This issue is remarkable not only for its rarity, but also for the innovative and fresh nature of the obverse die, which presents us with an abstemious but elegant Athena. The goddess' helmet, which usually displays a coiled serpent, flying griffin or seated sphinx is here completely unadorned. What was previously identified as a 'pellet ornament' on the bowl is in fact two loops - part of the metalwork that attaches the right hand crest to the outside of the helmet. Athena herself, who on these staters is almost exclusively depicted with an intricate drop-pendant earring and pearl necklace, now wears a simple loop earring and a plain double-banded necklace or torque.
The engraver has combined these features with a skilled portrait of Athena in a high classical feminine style. The result is an intriguingly demure Olympian; a vision of understated beauty.
Good Extremely Fine. Extremely Rare.
Ex Solidus Numismatik, Auction 49, 17 November 2019, lot 10.
This issue is remarkable not only for its rarity, but also for the innovative and fresh nature of the obverse die, which presents us with an abstemious but elegant Athena. The goddess' helmet, which usually displays a coiled serpent, flying griffin or seated sphinx is here completely unadorned. What was previously identified as a 'pellet ornament' on the bowl is in fact two loops - part of the metalwork that attaches the right hand crest to the outside of the helmet. Athena herself, who on these staters is almost exclusively depicted with an intricate drop-pendant earring and pearl necklace, now wears a simple loop earring and a plain double-banded necklace or torque.
The engraver has combined these features with a skilled portrait of Athena in a high classical feminine style. The result is an intriguingly demure Olympian; a vision of understated beauty.