Catalogue
| Émetteur | Federal Coinage of Phokis |
|---|---|
| Année | 457 BC - 446 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | Hemidrachm (1/2) |
| Devise | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Poids | 2.63 g |
| Diamètre | 14.0 mm |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
| Orientation | |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | HGC 4#1037 |
| Description de l’avers | Facing head of bull |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | |
| Légende de l’avers | |
| Description du revers | Ethnic clockwise, head of Aphrodite (or Artemis) right within incuse square. |
| Écriture du revers | |
| Légende du revers | Φ Ο Κ Ι |
| Tranche | |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
ND (457 BC - 446 BC) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 8047945860 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
Historical Context: This silver hemidrachm, issued by the Federal Coinage of Phokis (457-446 BC), originates from a period of significant geopolitical flux in ancient Greece. Phokis, a federal state, navigated complex rivalries between Athens and Sparta, often aligning itself to maintain autonomy. This coinage served as a crucial instrument for economic stability and military funding amidst regional conflicts, signifying the unified economic identity of the Phokian cities during these tumultuous years.
Artistry: This coin showcases the early Classical style, characteristic of mid-5th century BC Greek numismatics. Though the engraver is anonymous, the design reflects regional artistic conventions. The obverse typically features a powerful bull's head, likely symbolizing a local river god or fertility, rendered with developing naturalism. The reverse often displays a stylized Phokian shield, a potent emblem of the federal state's military strength and collective identity.
Technical/Grading: Weighing 2.63 grams and measuring 14.0 millimeters, this silver hemidrachm exemplifies ancient minting. High-points for wear typically include the bull's horns and muzzle on the obverse, and the shield's central boss and rim on the reverse. Due to manual striking, minor off-centering or peripheral softness is common. However, well-preserved specimens reveal sharp details in the animal's musculature and the shield's intricate pattern, reflecting skilled die work.