Hemiobol

Historical Context: The Kolophonian hemiobol, struck between 490 and 400 BC, situates itself within a tumultuous period for Ionian cities, navigating Persian suzerainty, the Greco-Persian Wars, and later, the Delian League's Athenian hegemony. As a fractional silver denomination, its issuance underscores Kolophon's independent economic agency and necessity for local exchange, reflecting its status as a significant, albeit often contested, mercantile center on the Anatolian coast. Its minting range suggests continuity through periods of shifting alliances and external pressures.

Artistry: Lacking explicit engraver signatures common to larger contemporary issues, the artistry of this hemiobol aligns with the prevailing Ionian stylistic currents, transitioning from late Archaic rigidity towards early Classical naturalism. Given the diminutive 6.5mm flan, iconography is typically condensed; common devices for Kolophon include the iconic griffin, often depicted protome, or elements associated with Apollo, rendered with remarkable precision for the scale, emphasizing clarity over elaborate detail within the confines of the small module.

Technical/Grading: For this minute 0.36g hemiobol, premium grading hinges on the exceptional strike quality and centration of the primary device, ensuring full representation of critical elements—e.g., the griffin's eye, beak, and wing contours, or the complete profile of a deity. The integrity of the flan, minimal die wear, and the legibility of any abbreviated ethnic (e.g., KOΛ) are paramount. A well-preserved example, free from significant off-striking or weakness, is exceedingly rare and highly coveted.