Achaemenid Persia | AE Trilobate Arrowhead | 550-330 BCE

Description: Achaemenid Persia | AE Armor Piercing Arrowhead Reference: NT Type T4; Stronach 10 Date: c. 550-330 BCE Blade Classification: Trilobate Point Shape: Rhombic-lanceolate Socket: Conical Stem: None, integrated socketBarbs: None Size: 35.3 mm Weight: 3.90 grams This Achaemenid Persian bronze arrowhead is identifiable due to its broad, rhombic lanceolate and trilobate shape, pyramid tip (for armor penetration), and stemless,integrated conical socket. The later two characteristics help to differentiate it from other Achaemenid types. Two of the arrowhead's blade have ancient impact deformations, suggesting the point was likely fired and encountered something hard at the end of its trajectory. Whether than was a Macedonian telamon or a simple rock it is impossible to know. This type is not found in Persian sites within Iran, and is far more common in Anatolia and the Levant. The solid pyramid tip on these arrowheads indicates they were likely designed to penetrate heavy armor. Heavily armored infantry were far more common in the Mediterranean littoral (ex. Greek hoplites and Macedonian pikeman) than on the northern steppe frontier or the Persian heartland which favored fast-moving cavalry and light infantry. NT T4 types were produced in the later half of the indicated production period (550-330 BCE) and were likely assocaited with Persia's conflict with the Greeks and Macedonians. Along with ancient coins, I also hunt for and collect ancient flint/chert points from throughout the Midwest. Picking up this hobby and having great mentorship from experienced flint experts --shoutout Roy Autry-- taught me a lot about the anatomy of projectile points and how to classify them (my favorites are Hopewell-Snyders and Table Rocks!). Years ago, when I won a former Wake Forest professor's collection of ancient bronze arrowheads at auction I was immediately hooked (arrowheads from this collection are not for sale...yet). How could I resist? This was a exciting crossover of my ancient coin and ancient flint point interests. Unfortunately, identifying or attributing ancient bronze arrowheads is relatively difficult compared to coins or North American flint. This is largely due to the scarcity of synthesized reference material. Most information is scattered throughout dense archaeological reports from different journals that non-academics don't have easy access to. Luckily for us, Joseph T. Sermarini over at FORVM has put together a wonderful reference guide, and Carsten Rau has written a useful book on European bronze arrowheads that I encourage the curious to check out. When it comes to ancient bronze arrowheads, its important to stress the evolutionary nature of their typology. While a particular arrowhead may match a Greek typology introduced c. 500 BCE, a similar type may have been produced by Roman auxilliaries c. 100 BCE. Without knowing the exact archaeological context of a particular point, it cannot be said with certainty if it belongs to a pre-Roman or Roman period. For example, types very similar to Greek socketed bilobates are often found in Roman sites in Spain. Policies I apply the highest ethical standards in selling ancient coins. All coins are guaranteed to be genuine and any item found to be otherwise may be returned for a full refund. The most important thing is that you are happy with your new coin(s)! All coins are shipped in PVC-free, archival-grade coin flips and inserts made of acid-free paper Domestic (USA) shipping only If you purchase multiple items please message me and I will combine the shipping for you. I accept all returns within 30 calendar days upon receipt of the item. No explanation is required for the return, but it would be appreciated. Any item which has been altered from its original state may not be returned. Don't see what you're looking for? Just shoot me a message, I might have it but haven't gotten around to listing it!

Price: 39.99 USD

Location: Canton, Michigan

End Time: 2024-03-10T15:52:51.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A USD