Siglos - Darius I / Xerxes I THE ROYAL COINAGE - 3rd type A

Historical Context: This Siglos, "The Royal Coinage - 3rd type A," dates from the Achaemenid Empire under Darius I and Xerxes I (490-475 BC). This era marked the zenith of Persian power, encompassing vast territories and the significant Greco-Persian Wars. The standardized silver Siglos was crucial for imperial administration, tribute collection, and funding the immense military apparatus, symbolizing the Great King's economic and political dominance across his vast empire.

Artistry: The design exemplifies the distinctive Achaemenid imperial style, prioritizing symbolic representation. While the engraver is anonymous, the consistent iconography points to centralized artistic control. The obverse depicts the Great King in a dynamic kneeling-running pose, wearing a kydaris and chiton, armed with a bow and spear. This iconic "Royal Archer" motif powerfully conveys the monarch's strength and martial prowess. The reverse features an irregular incuse punch.

Technical/Grading: Struck from high-purity silver (.950) on a 15mm flan, weighing 5.3 grams, this Siglos typically exhibits a robust fabric. Key high-points for evaluation include the king's kydaris, facial features, the bow, spear, and chiton drapery. While many examples are well-centered with a strong strike, minor off-centering is not uncommon. The incuse reverse punch varies in depth and clarity, occasionally impacting visual balance but rarely obscuring the obverse's iconic imagery.