Potin with filiform horse La Tène type

Emittent Sequani
Jahr 60 BC - 50 BC
Typ Standard circulation coin
Nennwert
Währung
Material Potin
Gewicht 3.23 g
Durchmesser 18 mm
Dicke
Form Round (irregular)
Prägetechnik Cast
Ausrichtung
Stempelschneider
Im Umlauf bis
Referenz(en) DT#3281
Aversbeschreibung Head facing left with a massive neck; hair in 3 or 4 rising locks.
Aversschrift
Averslegende
Reversbeschreibung Very fine and stylized horse on the right. Tail raised above croup; 3 globules above the tail.
Reversschrift
Reverslegende
Rand
Prägestätte
Auflage ND (60 BC - 50 BC) - -
Numisquare-ID 7144270770
Zusätzliche Informationen

Historical Context: Issued by the powerful Sequani tribe between 60 BC and 50 BC, this Potin coin dates to the tumultuous era preceding and during Julius Caesar's Gallic Wars. The Sequani, prominent in the Jura region, were central to Gallic tribal politics, frequently clashing with rivals. Potin coinage, a prevalent base-metal currency, underpinned daily commerce, signifying a developed economic system amidst intense political instability and the impending Roman conquest.

Artistry: While the engraver is anonymous, typical for Celtic coinage, this piece exemplifies the distinctive La Tène artistic tradition. The 'filiform horse' motif showcases the highly abstract and stylized nature of Celtic art, reducing zoomorphic forms to essential, often curvilinear lines. This emphasizes symbolic representation over naturalistic depiction, a profound departure from Greco-Roman classical influences, reflecting a unique indigenous cultural identity through its dynamic design.

Technical/Grading: Struck in Potin, an alloy of copper, tin, and lead, this 3.23 gram, 18 mm coin was typically cast, influencing its technical qualities. Key grading considerations include the completeness of the cast, especially the delicate 'filiform horse' design, and overall flan integrity. Desirable examples exhibit minimal porosity, clear definition of stylized lines, and good centering, allowing full appreciation of the intricate yet abstract artistry, often challenging to achieve in cast coinage.

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