Regular copper - David IV

Historical Context: This regular copper issue belongs to the reign of David IV, known as David the Builder, who ruled the Kingdom of Georgia from 1089 to 1125. This period marks the zenith of Georgian power and culture, often referred to as Georgia's Golden Age. David IV unified the Georgian lands, decisively defeated the Seljuk Turks at the Battle of Didgori in 1121, and established a strong, centralized monarchy. His coinage, including these copper issues, reflects the era of stability, economic prosperity, and national resurgence under his leadership, crucial for facilitating daily commerce within his expanding realm.

Artistry: While specific engravers for Georgian coinage of this era remain anonymous, the artistic style of David IV's copper issues typically exhibits a strong Byzantine influence, adapted with distinctive Georgian elements. Common designs for such "regular copper" coins often feature a prominent cross on one side, symbolizing the deep Christian faith of the kingdom. The reverse would typically bear the ruler's name and titles in Georgian script, likely Asomtavruli or Nuskhuri, possibly accompanied by religious invocations. The overall design would be functional yet imbued with symbolic significance, reflecting the monarch's authority and piety.

Technical/Grading: Struck from copper, this issue boasts a substantial weight of 10.8 grams and an impressive diameter of 35 millimeters, indicating a significant module for its denomination. As hand-struck coinage of the period, examples often display variations in strike quality, including occasional off-center strikes, planchet irregularities, or areas of weaker impression. For grading purposes, high points susceptible to wear would include the central elements of any cross design, the raised portions of the Georgian script, and any effigy or symbolic devices present. A well-centered strike with full details on the central devices and legible legends would command a premium.