Æ10

Historical Context: This Æ10 coin was issued by the city of Larissa in Thessaly, representing a specific type of the nymph Larissa, not a ruler. Dating from 400-300 BC, Larissa was a prominent city-state in Thessaly, famed for its fertile plains and equestrian culture. These bronze issues served as essential small change for local commerce, complementing the city's renowned silver coinage, reflecting Larissa's identity and economic foundations during a period of shifting regional powers.

Artistry: The engraver remains anonymous, typical for bronze issues of this era, yet the coin exemplifies the Classical Greek stylistic school prevalent in Thessaly. The obverse likely features a finely rendered head of the nymph Larissa, often facing right, her hair intricately styled, possibly with the distinctive "Phrikonis" characteristic. The reverse typically portrays a horse, either grazing or galloping, a powerful emblem of Thessaly's equestrian heritage, showcasing a naturalistic yet idealized aesthetic.

Technical/Grading: Given its small module (10.0 mm) and light weight (1.24 gg), achieving a complete, well-centered strike was challenging. Key high-points for the nymph's portrait include the nose, chin, and hair details. For the horse, the mane, musculature, and hooves are critical areas for detail preservation. Typical examples often exhibit some off-centring or softness in strike, common for bronze flans. A specimen with a strong, even strike and clear rendering of both nymph and horse would be exceptional for this type.