Catalog
| Issuer | Korkyra |
|---|---|
| Year | 400 BC - 350 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Drachm (1) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 5.58 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | BMC Greek#70 |
| Obverse description | Forepart of bull right. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Eight pointed star; between rays, stars. All within a pearl circle and two linear circles. |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (400 BC - 350 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 9810326750 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver drachm from Korkyra (modern Corfu), issued 400-350 BC, signifies a period of independence and prosperity for the strategically vital Greek city-state. Post-Peloponnesian War, Korkyra, a former Corinthian colony, solidified its autonomous status. Its economic strength, fueled by fertile lands and maritime trade, enabled sophisticated coinage. This drachm was crucial for commerce, underscoring Korkyra's self-reliance and influence in Classical Greece.
Artistry: Korkyraean coinage of this era is celebrated for its distinctive iconography, aligning with the late Classical Greek stylistic tradition. Engravers, though anonymous, displayed remarkable skill in naturalistic rendering. Common obverse designs include a cow suckling a calf, symbolizing agricultural abundance, or a Pegasos, alluding to Corinthian origins. The reverse consistently features the iconic triskeles—three running legs—possibly representing Korkyra’s three capes, executed with dynamism and balance, showcasing craftsmanship.
Technical/Grading: This 5.58-gram silver drachm conforms to the established weight standard. Key high-points for assessment include musculature and facial details of obverse animal figures (e.g., cow