Potin with filiform horse La Tène type

Emittente Sequani
Anno 60 BC - 50 BC
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valore
Valuta
Composizione Potin
Peso 3.23 g
Diametro 18 mm
Spessore
Forma Round (irregular)
Tecnica Cast
Orientamento
Incisore/i
In circolazione fino al
Riferimento/i DT#3281
Descrizione del dritto Head facing left with a massive neck; hair in 3 or 4 rising locks.
Scrittura del dritto
Legenda del dritto
Descrizione del rovescio Very fine and stylized horse on the right. Tail raised above croup; 3 globules above the tail.
Scrittura del rovescio
Legenda del rovescio
Bordo
Zecca
Tiratura ND (60 BC - 50 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 7144270770
Informazioni aggiuntive

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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