1⁄24 Stater - Kroisos Sardes

İhraççı Kings of Lydia
Yıl 560 BC - 546 BC
Tür Standard circulation coin
Değer 1⁄24 Stater = 3⁄24 Drachm (1/8)
Para birimi Drachm
Bileşim Silver
Ağırlık 0.41 g
Çap 6.0 mm
Kalınlık
Şekil Round (irregular)
Teknik Hammered, Incuse
Yönlendirme
Gravürcü(ler)
Dolaşımda olduğu yıl
Referans(lar) Klein#562, Berk#29, Berk#30, SNG Kayhan#1022
Ön yüz açıklaması Confronted foreparts of a lion, on the left facing right, and a bull, on the right facing left
Ön yüz yazısı
Ön yüz lejandı
Arka yüz açıklaması Incuse square
Arka yüz yazısı
Arka yüz lejandı
Kenar
Darphane
Basma adedi ND (560 BC - 546 BC) - -
Numisquare Kimliği 2289800870
Ek bilgiler

Historical Context: This 1/24 stater was issued by Kroisos (Croesus), the legendary last king of Lydia, reigning 560-546 BC. Lydia, in western Anatolia, is distinguished as the first state to issue true coinage. Kroisos, famed for his immense wealth, oversaw a pivotal transition from electrum to a bimetallic system of pure gold and silver. This small silver denomination reflects his kingdom's sophisticated economy before its conquest by Cyrus the Great of Persia.

Artistry: The coin's design embodies the early Archaic Greek artistic style prevalent in Ionian workshops. The obverse features the iconic confronted foreparts of a roaring lion and a powerful bull. This symbolic motif, representing royal power and agricultural prosperity, is a hallmark of Kroisos's coinage. The reverse typically displays one or more irregular incuse punches, characteristic of early coining technology, lacking pictorial or epigraphic detail.

Technical/Grading: As a minute silver denomination (0.41 grams, 6.0 mm), this 1/24 stater often presents striking challenges. High-points for wear are the muzzles, eyes, and manes of the animals. Early minting and small flans often result in off-center strikes, incomplete impressions, and varying depth in the reverse incuse. Full detail is rare; irregular flans influence overall eye appeal and grade.

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