Stater

Historical Context: This silver stater, struck by Corinth around 300 BC, dates to the early Hellenistic period. Following Alexander the Great’s death, Corinth maintained its strategic importance as a major commercial and naval power, navigating the shifting influences of the Diadochi. Corinthian staters, with their Pegasus and Athena designs, were a premier international currency, widely accepted and imitated across the Mediterranean, especially in Magna Graecia. This highlights the city's significant economic and political influence during this era.

Artistry: The coin exemplifies the sophisticated artistry of the late Classical to early Hellenistic stylistic school. While specific engravers remain anonymous, the craftsmanship is evident. The obverse features Pegasus, the mythical winged horse, flying left, often with the Corinthian koppa (Q) below. The reverse presents a dignified head of Athena, patron goddess, wearing a finely detailed Corinthian helmet. The rendering of Athena’s features and the helmet’s crest reflects the period’s increasing naturalism and mastery of relief sculpture.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 6.84 grams and measuring 19 millimeters, this stater adheres to the established Corinthian weight standard. For optimal grading, collectors seek a strong strike on the high-points: Pegasus’s wings and head, and especially the crest and bowl of Athena’s Corinthian helmet, her nose, and chin. Well-centered examples with full details on both sides are prized. Weakness is often observed on the helmet crest or Pegasus’s extremities due to common striking irregularities or die wear.