Semis

Historical Context: This bronze Semis was issued by Uxentum, a Messapian city in Magna Graecia (modern Ugento), from 125 BC to 90 BC. Uxentum, like many allied cities, maintained local autonomy and the right to mint coinage under increasing Roman hegemony. This era preceded and overlapped with the Social War, a critical conflict for Italian citizenship. Uxentum's Semis served as essential local currency, reflecting the city's economic vitality and continued independence amidst profound political and social transformations.

Artistry: The engraver of this Uxentine Semis remains anonymous, common for ancient civic bronzes. Stylistically, the coin exhibits Hellenistic influence prevalent in Magna Graecia, often interpreted with local Messapian sensibilities. While specific design details are not provided, such issues commonly feature a deity's head on the obverse, perhaps a local patron, and a civic emblem or animal on the reverse, often with the denomination mark 'S'. The artistry, robust and functional for local circulation, might display less refined quality than contemporary silver issues, reflecting its utilitarian purpose.

Technical/Grading: This Semis weighs 7.02 grams and measures 17 millimeters, standard dimensions for such bronze denominations. Key high-points susceptible to wear include hair and facial features on an obverse bust, or prominent musculature on a reverse figure. Technical strike quality for ancient bronzes can vary; issues often present with irregular flan shapes, off-center strikes, or areas of weak impression. Overall condition, including surface details and patination, are crucial grading considerations for this local Uxentine issue.