Æ

Historical Context: Issued by the prosperous Greek colony of Chersonesos in Taurica around 350 BC, this Æ coin reflects the city-state's economic vitality during the Late Classical period. Chersonesos, a democratic polis, thrived as a significant trading port on the Black Sea, interacting extensively with Scythian tribes and other Greek settlements. The issuance of copper coinage like this piece indicates a sophisticated local economy requiring fractional denominations for daily transactions, complementing larger silver issues. It underscores the city's self-sufficiency and robust internal commerce, essential for its continued growth and defense in a volatile region.

Artistry: While the engraver of this specific Æ issue remains anonymous, typical of most ancient bronze coinage, its style aligns with the Late Classical Greek artistic tradition. Chersonesos coinage often features a finely rendered head of the Parthenos, the city's patron goddess, on the obverse, depicted with serene features and elegantly styled hair, reflecting the period's emphasis on naturalism and idealized beauty. The reverse typically displays an animal, such as a bull, symbolizing the agricultural wealth or regional identity of Taurica, often accompanied by the city's ethnic inscription.

Technical/Grading: This 19mm, 6.30g copper coin would be evaluated based on its strike quality, flan integrity, and preservation of design elements. High-points for a Parthenos head would include the hair details, diadem, and facial contours, while for a bull, the horns, musculature, and ground line. A strong strike would reveal crisp details, whereas common issues for these Æ types include minor off-centering, die wear, or flan irregularities. The relatively substantial weight and diameter for a bronze coin suggest it was a significant denomination within Chersonesos' local monetary system.