Siglos - Darius I / Artaxerxes II THE ROYAL COINAGE - 3rd type

Historical Context: This Siglos, a prominent component of the Achaemenid Empire's 'Royal Coinage' and specifically designated as the 3rd type, was minted over a substantial period from 490 BC to 375 BC. Encompassing the reigns of Darius I through Artaxerxes II, this standardized silver currency was fundamental to the vast Persian Empire. It facilitated imperial administration, trade, and the payment of mercenaries across its immense territories, thereby underpinning Achaemenid economic and military power during a period of significant expansion and conflict, including the Greco-Persian Wars.

Artistry: The engraver responsible for this Siglos remains anonymous, a common characteristic of Achaemenid imperial coinage. The design adheres strictly to the Achaemenid stylistic school, which prioritized symbolic representation of power over the emerging naturalism of contemporary Greek art. The obverse features the iconic 'Great King' in a distinctive kneeling-running stance, holding a bow in his left hand and a spear in his right. This powerful iconography portrays the monarch as a formidable warrior and hunter, asserting the king's divine right and military prowess. The reverse consistently displays an irregular, often crude, incuse punch.

Technical/Grading: Struck in high-purity silver (.950), this Siglos weighs 5.49 grams and measures 15 mm, exhibiting typical Achaemenid minting characteristics. Key high-points for assessing wear and strike quality include the king's head, the bow and spear tips, and the definition of his attire and musculature. Strikes are frequently off-center with an irregular flan, common due to the manual striking process and the simple incuse reverse punch. Despite these common production variations, the obverse details are generally well-rendered, and the high silver content ensures good metal integrity, though heavy circulation can diminish finer design elements.