Gold Stater with hippocampus

Đơn vị phát hành Gaul Veneti
Năm 100 BC - 70 BC
Loại Standard circulation coin
Mệnh giá 1 Stater
Tiền tệ
Chất liệu Gold
Trọng lượng 7.53 g
Đường kính 19.5 mm
Độ dày
Hình dạng Round (irregular)
Kỹ thuật Hammered
Hướng Variable alignment ↺
Nghệ nhân khắc
Lưu hành đến
Tài liệu tham khảo LT#6830, DT#2118
Mô tả mặt trước Celticized head right, surmounted by hippocampus right; pearl strings flowing around, terminating in small Celticized heads.
Chữ viết mặt trước
Chữ khắc mặt trước
Mô tả mặt sau Devolved charioteer driving biga right, holding reins in left hand, right hand holding long branch connected to vexillum-like device to right; below, winged figure flying right.
Chữ viết mặt sau
Chữ khắc mặt sau
Cạnh
Xưởng đúc
Số lượng đúc ND (100 BC - 70 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 4691752800
Thông tin bổ sung

Historical Context: This Gold Stater, issued by the Gaulish Veneti between 100 BC and 70 BC, marks their economic zenith. As a powerful maritime tribe in Armorica (modern Brittany), the Veneti controlled crucial Atlantic trade routes. The coin's high value underscores their sophisticated economy, vital for inter-tribal and external commerce. This period precedes Caesar's conquest, representing significant independence and prosperity for this formidable Celtic nation.

Artistry: The engraver, typical of Celtic coinage, is anonymous. Stylistically, it belongs to the Armorican Celtic school, known for abstracting classical motifs, often from Macedonian staters. The obverse features a fragmented, stylized head. The reverse displays a dismembered, abstract horse, accompanied by a hippocampus. This marine creature conveys the Veneti's deep connection to the sea, blending their maritime identity with traditional Celtic equine symbolism.

Technical/Grading: At 7.53 grams and 19.5 millimeters, this gold stater meets typical specifications. High-points for evaluation include the intricate patterns of the stylized head and the full rendering of the horse and hippocampus. A strong strike reveals crisp details in these abstract elements. While centering varies, a well-centered example on an even, broad flan, free from significant flaws, is highly prized, showcasing superior craftsmanship and preservation of the original design.

×