Obol

Historical Context: This silver obol originates from Koroneia, a city within the Boeotian League, during the Late Classical period (400-350 BC). This era witnessed significant political flux in Greece following the Peloponnesian War, with Thebes rising to challenge Spartan hegemony. Koroneia, though a smaller member, contributed to the League's collective strength and economic system. Fractional denominations like the obol were crucial for daily commerce, reflecting the city's integration into the broader Boeotian monetary sphere and its need for precise transactional currency.

Artistry: The engraver of this diminutive piece remains anonymous, typical for fractional coinage of the period. Stylistically, it belongs to the Late Classical Greek school, characterized by a move towards greater naturalism, albeit simplified for the coin's small scale. The obverse typically features the iconic Boeotian shield, a symbol of the League's military might. The reverse commonly depicts a head of Demeter or Persephone, often facing right with hair bound, referencing the region's agricultural fertility and prominent cults.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a small silver flan (0.68 gg, 10.0 mmmm), this obol presents specific technical challenges. High-points for wear or strike quality include the central boss and rim of the Boeotian shield, and the forehead, nose, and hair details of the reverse head. Due to the manual striking process and small flan, off-centering and incomplete strikes are frequent. Full details of both dies are rare, and the flan itself often exhibits an irregular shape. Surface quality is generally good for the silver alloy, though minor imperfections are common.