2.19.2009

Bee/Stag AR Tetradrachm EF Ephesos Ionia 390 BC

Bee/Stag AR Tetradrachm EF Ephesos Ionia 390 BC
Bee/Stag AR Tetradrachm EF Ephesos Ionia 390 BC, 2009
Ink on paper, 4x4" (each)

Up for bid are two original drawings of an ancient Greek coin, a silver tetradrachm. The diptych is by artist, Erik Dalzen, and is titled "Bee/Stag AR Tetradrachm EF Ephesos Ionia 390 BC." India ink drawing on Pescia Grey 100% archival cotton rag paper. Each of the two drawings measure 4x4 inches. Unique. Signed and dated on the back.

This silver AR tetradrachm* features a bee on the obverse and the forepart of a stag and a palm tree on the reverse. The coin is from Ephesos, Ionia; present day Efes, Turkey. Struck circa 390-340 B.C. 15.30 grams. 27 mm in diameter. Coin in excellet shape, EF grade. The tetradrachm is one of the earliest coins, used in wide circulation throughout Greece from 510 BC to 38 BC. The monetary value of one tetradrachm, in those days, would equate to roughly a weeks wages for a skilled laborer. The tetradrachm were hand-stamped which lead to imperfect impressions and irregular shaped coins.

*This is only background information about the coin from which the drawings were made. The actual coin is not included in this auction. If you are the winning bidder you will receive a diptych (two drawings) in the mail, shipped in a flat envelope.

Auction ends: 02.26.2009 12:54:42 PST Spare some change

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