Diobol - Kuprilli

Historical Context: This silver diobol was issued by Kuprilli, a prominent dynast of Lycia, between 480 and 440 BC. Lycia, though under Achaemenid Persian suzerainty, maintained considerable local autonomy. Kuprilli's coinage reflects a complex geopolitical era following the Greco-Persian Wars, where Lycian rulers balanced Persian loyalty with growing Greek influence. This fractional denomination served as a tangible symbol of the dynast's independent administration, facilitating local commerce and asserting his economic authority.

Artistry: The design, constrained by its diminutive fabric, typically blends early classical Greek and indigenous Anatolian artistic traditions. While the engraver is unknown, the stylistic school reflects the transitional period from archaic to early classical naturalism. Common obverse types for Kuprilli include a lion's scalp or a human head, rendered with robust, sculptural quality. The reverse often features a geometric device like a triskeles or a simple inscription. The compact design prioritizes legibility and symbolic impact, showcasing developing numismatic iconography.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 1.30 grams and measuring 12 millimeters, this silver diobol is a typical early fractional issue. Key high-points for evaluation include the clarity of facial features or animal's mane on the obverse, and the distinctness of any reverse devices. Given the era, flan irregularities, minor off-centering, and variable strike pressure are common, often resulting in areas of flatness. The fabric is generally robust, though minor hairline scratches or test cuts are not uncommon. A well-struck example exhibits sharp details and a clear representation of the chosen motif.