Hemiobol Babylon

Historical Context: This silver hemiobol originates from the Satrapy of Babylon during the tumultuous early Diadochi period (328-311 BC). Following Alexander the Great's death, Babylon, a vital economic hub, became a contested prize among his generals. Its issuance reflects the ongoing need for a stable monetary system by the various satrapal administrations, initially under governors like Peithon and later Antigonus I Monophthalmus, even as political sovereignty remained fluid before the definitive establishment of the Seleucid Empire.

Artistry: While the engraver remains anonymous, typical for fractional denominations, the coin exhibits early Hellenistic artistry. Its design, likely a deity's head on the obverse and a local symbol or animal on the reverse (per BMC Greek#14-16), blended traditional Mesopotamian iconography with nascent Greek stylistic conventions. The execution, constrained by the coin's diminutive size, aimed to convey authority and cultural identity, reflecting post-Alexandrian Mesopotamia's syncretic artistic environment.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, weighing 0.47 grams and measuring 7.74 millimeters, this hemiobol is a significant fractional denomination. High-points susceptible to wear include prominent features of any portrait or raised elements of a reverse device. Due to the small flan, strikes are frequently off-center, leading to partial designs. The overall fabric can exhibit minor irregularities; dies, though competently cut, often show less intricate detail than larger issues, making a well-centered, fully struck example particularly desirable.