Silver ½ Unit Pickenham Flower

Emittente Iceni tribe (Celtic Britain)
Anno 10-20
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valore Silver ½ Unit
Valuta Stater
Composizione Silver
Peso 0.17 g
Diametro 10 mm
Spessore
Forma Round (irregular)
Tecnica Hammered
Orientamento Variable alignment ↺
Incisore/i
In circolazione fino al
Riferimento/i
Descrizione del dritto Four petals around central ringed pellet, pellet line down centre of each. Pellet line between petals, radiating from the centre.
Scrittura del dritto
Legenda del dritto
Descrizione del rovescio Horse right. Ringed pellet above. Pellet below and under tail.
Scrittura del rovescio
Legenda del rovescio
Bordo
Zecca
Tiratura ND (10-20)
ID Numisquare 6681701076
Informazioni aggiuntive

Historical Context: The Silver ½ Unit Pickenham Flower, issued by the Iceni tribe between 10-20 AD, offers insight into pre-Roman Iron Age Britain. The Iceni, a powerful tribe in Norfolk, developed a sophisticated monetary system, evidenced by fractional silver denominations. This coin likely circulated during an influential Iceni leader's reign, possibly Prasutagus, amidst increasing interaction with the burgeoning Roman presence. Its issuance underscores the tribe's economic autonomy and internal trade networks prior to the Claudian invasion.

Artistry: This diminutive coin belongs to the distinct Pickenham Flower stylistic group. While the engraver remains anonymous, typical for Celtic coinage, the artistry reflects the abstract and symbolic nature of Iceni numismatic expression. The 'Flower' motif, likely a stylized rosette or sunburst, would have been centrally placed, often juxtaposed with other Celtic devices. This design school is known for its curvilinear forms and bold reinterpretation of classical prototypes, creating a uniquely British Celtic aesthetic on a miniature scale.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this ½ unit weighs a mere 0.17 grams and measures 10 millimeters, making it one of the smallest Iceni issues. Given its minute size, full strike definition across the entire flan is rare. Key high-points for evaluation would be the central elements of the 'flower' motif and any accompanying details. Common technical characteristics include irregular flan shapes, minor off-centering, and partial strikes. The purity of the silver and precision required for such small dies speak to the Iceni's minting capabilities.

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