Potin with filiform horse La Tène type

Emisor Sequani
Año 60 BC - 50 BC
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valor
Moneda
Composición Potin
Peso 3.23 g
Diámetro 18 mm
Grosor
Forma Round (irregular)
Técnica Cast
Orientación
Grabador(es)
En circulación hasta
Referencia(s) DT#3281
Descripción del anverso Head facing left with a massive neck; hair in 3 or 4 rising locks.
Escritura del anverso
Leyenda del anverso
Descripción del reverso Very fine and stylized horse on the right. Tail raised above croup; 3 globules above the tail.
Escritura del reverso
Leyenda del reverso
Canto
Casa de moneda
Tirada ND (60 BC - 50 BC) - -
ID de Numisquare 7144270770
Información adicional

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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