Kingdom of Paeonia, Patraus, 335 – 315 Damastion Tetradrachm

The Paeonian tetradrachm of King Patraus (circa 335–315 BC) is a silver coin struck during the late Classical period, likely at the Damastion mint (though attribution remains debated). It is among the most iconic Paeonian issues due to its dynamic martial reverse type.

Obverse

Laureate head of Apollo, facing right.

This refined Classical portrait style is consistent across Paeonian royal issues.

Reverse

Warrior on horseback, advancing or rearing right,

spearing a fallen enemy soldier who defends himself with a shield and spear.

Various symbols may appear, such as:

“M” monogram above the horse

Bucranium (bull's skull) below the horse in some dies

This design is widely interpreted as a visual assertion of Paeonian military identity and autonomy, rather than a depiction of a specific historical event.