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Tetradrachm with Head of Tyche

Tetradrachm with Head of Tyche

Artist
CultureGreek, Smyrna
Datec. 150 BCE
MediumSilver
Dimensions3/16 x 1 5/16 x 1 5/16 in., 0.0377 lb. (0.5 x 3.4 x 3.4 cm, 17.1g)
Classificationscoins & medals
Credit LineGift of the Tyche Foundation. Donated by Michael & Stark Ward to the Foundation in honor of Charles W. Millard, III
Object number2010.34
DescriptionObverse:
Head of a woman in profile to right wearing a crown with a turreted city wall. Her hair is pulled back from the face in richly coiled locks with a small wisp escaping before
the ear. The long hair is pulled into a bunch at the nape from which two twisting locks fall over the neck. Individual strands are finely detailed. The prominent features, strong chin, and full “Venus rings” in the neck give her a commanding presence.

Reverse:
An oak wreath surrounds the two-lined legend “Smyrnaion,” that is, belonging to the people of Smyrna (modern Izmir), and the monogram of a magistrate or mint. The oak tree was sacred to Zeus, so an oak wreath signified the worship of that deity. An altar to Zeus was built at Smyrna circa 150 BCE.
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