Obol Svicca or Eccaio Type

Historical Context: The Obol Svicca or Eccaio Type originates from the Kingdom of Noricum, a significant Celtic entity in the Eastern Alps, flourishing between 100 BC and 1 BC. This period marks the height of Norican independence before its eventual Roman annexation. These small silver obols served as vital fractional currency, facilitating local trade and commerce within the tribal confederation. The 'Svicca or Eccaio' designation likely refers to a prominent magistrate or tribal leader responsible for its issuance, indicating a sophisticated administrative structure capable of issuing standardized coinage.

Artistry: The design of the Svicca or Eccaio Type obol exemplifies the distinctive Celtic artistic tradition, characterized by its highly stylized and often abstract interpretation of forms. While specific engravers remain anonymous, the coin belongs to a broader stylistic school that adapted Hellenistic prototypes with a unique indigenous flair. Norican obols typically feature a highly abstracted head on the obverse, often derived from classical Apollo types, and a similarly stylized animal or symbolic motif on the reverse. This blend of external influence and native iconography is compressed onto its diminutive 8mm flan.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this obol weighs 0.51 grams and measures 8 millimeters, presenting inherent challenges for consistent minting. The technical strike quality often varies, with off-center strikes and irregular flans being common due to the hand-striking process. High-points, such as the hair or facial features on the obverse and details of the reverse motif, are frequently weakly struck or exhibit early wear. Collectors assess these coins based on their overall fabric, metal quality, and the clarity of the identifying features referenced as Kostial#218, rather than expecting a perfectly centered and fully struck design typical of later Roman issues.