1/2 Siglos

Historical Context: This 1/2 Siglos was issued by Phasis, a pivotal Greek colony on the eastern Black Sea coast, active between 425 BC and 325 BC. This period spans the late Classical and early Hellenistic eras. As a prominent trading emporium, Phasis facilitated commerce between the Black Sea and interior regions. The issuance of billon coinage, rather than high-purity silver, suggests a localized currency for internal transactions, reflecting the city's economic autonomy.

Artistry: While the engraver remains anonymous, typical for civic issues of this era, the coin's design adheres to the stylistic conventions of the Greek Classical period. The obverse commonly features the forepart or head of a bull, often facing right, a symbol potentially linked to local cults or agricultural prosperity. The reverse typically displays a formidable gorgoneion, an apotropaic device believed to ward off evil. The execution, though on a small flan, aimed for expressive detail within the prevailing artistic traditions of the Black Sea region.

Technical/Grading: Struck on an 11mm billon flan weighing 2.4 grams, this denomination presents inherent striking challenges. High-points for the bull design include horns and muzzle; for the gorgoneion, eyes and mouth are critical. Due to billon's nature and the small planchet, full strikes are often elusive, with common off-centering, areas of weakness, and granular surfaces. A well-centered example with clear detail on both primary devices, despite typical alloy imperfections, would be considered exceptional.