Stater

Historical Context: This electrum stater, issued by the prosperous Ionian island of Chios circa 500 BC, originates from the Archaic period, a pivotal era for early Greek coinage. Chios, a prominent maritime and commercial power, was among the first Greek city-states to adopt the Lydian innovation of coinage. This issue highlights the island’s significant economic influence and early monetary sophistication, predating widespread silver currency and establishing its place in the nascent numismatic landscape.

Artistry: The obverse design features a meticulously rendered, full-bodied winged sphinx, seated left, a potent civic emblem and protective deity of Chios. Executed in the Archaic Greek style, the sphinx exhibits characteristic features like a serene, archaic smile and finely detailed musculature and plumage. While the engraver remains anonymous, the artistry reflects developing naturalism and iconic symbolism prevalent in Ionian coin designs. The reverse bears a simple, deeply struck incuse square, a hallmark of early coinage technology.

Technical/Grading: Struck on an electrum flan weighing 14.05 grams, this stater’s technical quality is assessed by the clarity of its high-points. Critical areas for evaluation include the sphinx’s face, the intricate feathering of its wings, and the definition of its leonine body. A superior strike presents these details with sharpness, avoiding common flatness or weakness often seen in early electrum issues. The incuse reverse should be bold and well-defined, indicating a forceful and complete strike.