Hemiobol

Emitent Federal Coinage of Phokis
Rok 485 BC - 480 BC
Typ Standard circulation coin
Hodnota Hemiobol (1⁄12)
Měna Drachm
Složení Silver
Hmotnost 0.35 g
Průměr 7.0 mm
Tloušťka
Tvar Round (irregular)
Technika Hammered, Incuse
Orientace
Rytci
V oběhu do
Reference BCD Peloponnesos#199
Popis líce Profile head and neck of bull to right
Písmo líce
Opis líce
Popis rubu Corinthian helmet to left in incuse square
Písmo rubu
Opis rubu
Hrana
Mincovna
Náklad ND (485 BC - 480 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 5606720590
Další informace

Historical Context: This silver hemiobol, issued by Federal Coinage of Phokis between 485-480 BC, belongs to a pivotal period just prior to the Greco-Persian Wars. Its federal issuance signifies a collective economic and political identity among Phokian city-states, driven by regional alliances and trade needs. This era saw formalized inter-polis cooperation, essential for defense and local commerce. As a small denomination, the hemiobol served as vital small change for daily transactions within the Phokian koinon.

Artistry: While specific engravers remain anonymous for minute Early Classical issues, the coin's design reflects burgeoning artistic trends. Phokian hemiobols typically feature a stylized bull's head, often facing, on the obverse, a motif resonant with regional agricultural wealth or local cults. The reverse commonly displays a simple incuse square or minimalist symbol. Despite its diminutive 7.0 mm diameter, the engraver aimed for clarity, showcasing a transition from archaic stiffness towards naturalistic, compact representations.

Technical/Grading: Weighing a mere 0.35 grams, this silver hemiobol attests to ancient minting precision. Key high-points for wear, assuming a bull's head design, include the horns, eyes, and muzzle. Due to the small flan and hand-striking, minor off-centering, partial strikes, or slight flan irregularities are common. A well-struck example exhibits clear detail on the primary device, good metal flow, and minimal weakness in central design elements, despite the inherent challenges of striking such a tiny coin.

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