Obol

Historical Context: This silver obol, issued by the ancient city of Mallos in Cilicia between 440 and 390 BC, places it firmly within the Classical Greek period. Mallos, a significant coastal city in southeastern Asia Minor, demonstrated economic autonomy through its coinage, despite often being under nominal Achaemenid Persian suzerainty. The issuance of small denominations like the obol was vital for local commerce and daily transactions, reflecting the city's active role in regional trade during an era of dynamic geopolitical shifts.

Artistry: The specific engraver of this diminutive coin remains anonymous, typical for fractional issues of the period. Stylistically, the obol embodies the prevailing Classical Greek aesthetic, often featuring a finely rendered deity head on the obverse, such as Athena, or a local heroic figure. The reverse typically presents a compact yet powerful symbol, frequently an eagle or a specific civic emblem. Despite the extremely small 8mm flan, the artistry demonstrates considerable skill, capturing essential details and conveying monumental design in miniature.

Technical/Grading: Given its minute dimensions and 0.78 gram weight, the technical execution of this obol presented inherent challenges. High-points susceptible to wear typically include the forehead, hair, and chin of any depicted head, or the musculature and wings of an animal reverse. Strike quality varies; perfect centering and a full, even strike across both dies are less common due to the manual striking process. The silver fabric is generally compact, though minor flan imperfections or planchet irregularities are not unusual, reflecting ancient minting practicalities.