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PART I: PRETTY EARLY FACING DRACHMS |
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What defines a great work of coin art? To some extent this is a
subjective matter. On the other hand, a truly superb specimen stands out
quite remarkably from the rest. Below are the prettiest Larissian
early facing drachms. There are Larissian
coins that have more personality, mystery or intensity. But the coins below
represent the pinnacle of the Larissian coin engraver's art of the early period, at least according
to my assessment.
One important note regarding these coins: When one considers the incredibly
small scale (most early drachms range from 19mm to 21mm in diameter), it is
astounding how these master die-engravers were able to achieve such
intricate designs. These pieces were created without the benefit of
modern technology. They are a fitting tribute to the transcendent
beauty of Classical Greek art and the ingenuity it took to create such
treasures.
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There is a remarkable intensity in this rendition of Larissa, as well as a very life-like quality.
It is difficult to define her expression here. Is she angry, moody or annoyed? Or is she simply impetuous?
She also seems quite feminine, which is different from many of the portraits of early facing drachms,
where Larissa has decidedly masculine qualities. The reverse is also exceptional, although part of the horse's hindquarters and hind legs
are missing. Note the exquisite relief in the musculature of the horse's body. |
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This is among the most refined and ethereal renditions of the early facing coins of Larissa. It reminds me a little of the
Amphipolis facing heads of Apollo, which are recognized as representing among the most beautiful of ancient Greek coins.
The elaborate hairstyle adds to the regal quality of this portrait. I also like the shape of the flan itself,
nicely framing a superior portraiture of the nymph. All in all, one of the most classical of Larissian coins. |
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This is a classic early facing portrait style. It has a youthful and feminine quality which is noteworthy. Also of interest is the reverse,
which features a running horse, an unusual motif among early facing drachms. The obverse in particular is very well-centered
in the flan, again, an unusual quality among early coins. |
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This coin is underrated! It went unsold in both Dr. Busso Peus Nachfolger and Gorny & Mosch auctions, before
I purchased it when the former dealer tried to sell it again. It caught my eye immediately when I examined it in previous catalogues.
The portrait is both delicate and feminine, and the coin looks
superb in hand. There is a soulful look to Larissa that makes this coin particularly appealing.
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Charm simply oozes out of this coin. It is by no means the most attractive early facing drachm. Yet there is a mischievous
quality that is unmistakable. Larissa has a coy smile here, and one wonders what she is thinking.
The reverse shows exquisite detail as well. This coin sold for 900 USD at Triton VI in January of 2003. |
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PART II: PRETTY MIDDLE & LATE FACING DRACHMS |
Although there is not the same extensive variations in obverse styles as in the early period, some of the middle drachms
represent among the most artistic of Larissian coins. They achieve a level of artistic sophistication and intricacy
that even the finest early drachms could not match. The late facing drachms have a few
remarkable pieces, but this period is characterized more by fixed styles, with only subtle variations,
and few creative enhancements. The mass produced coinage of Phase L-III in particular features more common
coinage.
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This is the finest Larissian facing head drachm I have yet seen from any period: a true
masterwork. It is a dramatic coin. The artistry is superb, achieving a
striking level of realism. The portrait is delicate and ethereal. The
reverse is an interesting and rare type, also of great artistic merit.
Note the fine details in the face of the horseman. Finally, the toning
enhances the overall beauty of this piece. This coin was sold at Tkalec's
2003 Auction, for 2,500 CHF (approximately 1,900 USD). |
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This specimen reflects among the most powerful renditions of any Larissian facing head coins. The flowing hair is marvellous, and the expression is both noble and serene. The portrait is remarkably lifelike, and seems to almost jump off the screen. This is truly a masterpiece of classical Greek coin art. The Numismatic Auction Ltd sold this coin in its December auction of 1982. The estimate was 3,400 USD, a rather large estimate for a Larissian facing head drachm at that time, reflecting its exceptional quality. |
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This coin is likely the most expensive Larissian facing head drachm
sold at auction in the last several years. It sold for 5,600 CHF
(approximately 4,275 USD) at the May 2001 Leu Auction, a price level
usually associated with Larissian staters. The portrait is
majestic, and the reverse is also impressive. Note the exquisite detail
of the cavalryman, particularly the face and attire. This coin type is
rare in such superb condition. |
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The obverse of this coin shows exquisite detail. The dealer suggested it was
the finest Larissian drachm he has ever handled, struck in exceptionally high relief.
The features in the portrait are indeed beautifully engraved.
Kirk Davis sold this coin for 3,250 USD in 2003 (Catalogue 41). |
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Although a common late type, the obverse here has superb style, and is in great condition. The portrait is quite pleasing, having noble and
refined features. The reverse is less impressive. This coin was sold by Tkalec in his 2005 Auction for 1,300 CHF (approximately 990 USD). |
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Another late type, and a pretty specimen as well. Larissa here seems to have a
placid demeanour. The surface toning seems to highlight her face. The details of the
bone structure of her face are particularly fine. This coin is featured in the ANS database. |
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PART III: PRETTY STATERS |
Some of the high-end Larissian staters are among the most stunning of
Classical Greek coins. They are true masterworks of the die-engraver's
art, rivalling some of the best facing head coins ever produced by the
ancient Greeks. These high-end staters are delicate personifications
of feminine beauty and style.
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This is without a doubt the most stunning Larissian coin to come into market in the last several years, and also the most expensive.
The portrait has particularly fine detail, and the high relief contributes
to one of the most natural and lifelike renditions of any Larissian
facing head coins I have seen. This is the pinnacle of Larissian coin art. The reverse is also
particularly sharp, with the dealer rating the reverse as almost FDC.
The coin was sold for 16,000 CHF (approximately 12,400 USD) at the Numismatica Ars Classica auction of April 2006. In fact, this price was almost double the 8,500 CHF it fetched in NAC's June 2003 Auction. |
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This portrait has a wonderfully delicate style, and is of exceptional feminine beauty. The facial features appear fragile, and the expression displays a hint of vulnerability and sweetness. This coin was sold at the Numismatica Ars Classica auction of April 1995. The estimate was for 6,000 CHF. |
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This coin is of incredible style. The delicate and refined quality of
the portrait is noteworthy. The pronounced leftward tilt of the head
gives the nymph a particularly coy appearance. The light toning adds to
the highlights. Staters in such superb condition are rare. This coin
sold for 8,000 USD at CNG's Triton Auction of 2004. The dealer
estimated it at 10,000 USD. |
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This coin is from the same die pair as the one above, and is likewise of an
exceptionally delicate and feminine style.
The rounded head and soft features lend a natural sweetness and warmth
to the portrait. The small die break to the right in no way distracts
from the coin. The reverse is a little less impressive than that of
other staters described here. This coin was sold for 2,035 USD at CNG
Auction # 35, August 2001. |
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This is a stunning coin, with a bold and dignified portrait. Note the
slightly upward tilt of the head, adding to the noble quality of the
rendition. The expression is particularly serious and reserved. The
reverse is likewise impressive. |
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This coin may not have the most intricate and subtle design, but it
deserves honourable mention nonetheless. It is one of the pieces that
launched my interest in Larissian facing head coins generally. I think
the dark toning gives it an air of mystery. The hair seems fiery. But
it is probably the expression on the nymph's face that most attracted
me. There is a look that is difficult to define, which makes it a true
work of art. This coin sold for 6,400 DEM (approximately 3,900 USD at
the time Germany adopted the Euro) at the Gorny & Mosch Auction of
April 2001. |
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