Æ14

Historical Context: This Æ14 from Caesarea Mazaca, Cappadocia (96-63 BC), emerged during the tumultuous Mithridatic Wars. As a Roman client kingdom, Cappadocia, under King Ariobarzanes I Philoromaios, was frequently caught between Rome and Mithridates VI of Pontus. Despite repeated expulsions and restorations, this bronze coinage highlights persistent local economic activity and regional identity, providing essential small change amidst intense external pressures.

Artistry: The design, characteristic of RPC Online I#3612, reflects a provincial Hellenistic style. The obverse features a laureate head of Zeus, aiming for classical grandeur despite the small flan. The reverse typically displays a club within an oak wreath, alongside the city's name, KAISAREIA. Though the engraver is anonymous, the execution follows prevalent Greek artistic conventions of eastern client kingdoms, utilizing recognizable divine imagery and local emblems for broad appeal.

Technical/Grading: At 14mm and 2.56 grams, strike quality is crucial. High-points for wear include Zeus's forehead, nose, and laurel wreath, plus the club and reverse wreath definition. Bronze coinage of this period frequently shows irregular flans, off-center strikes, and weak pressure, resulting in partial legends or indistinct devices. A well-preserved example exhibits a relatively full strike, clear Zeus portraiture, and legible legends, indicating careful die preparation and competent striking.