Stater

Historical Context: This Stater was issued by Leukas, an important Corinthian colony located in Acarnania, during the period of 400 BC to 375 BC. This era, immediately following the Peloponnesian War, was a time of shifting power dynamics among Greek city-states. Leukas, strategically positioned in the Ionian Sea, maintained significant economic independence through maritime trade and alliances, often aligning with Corinth and Sparta. The issuance of its own substantial silver coinage, such as this stater, underscores its prosperity, civic autonomy, and status as a vital regional power.

Artistry: The coin's design is characteristic of the Late Classical style, showcasing a move towards greater naturalism and refinement. The obverse typically features Pegasos, the winged horse, flying left, a direct iconographic link to its mother city, Corinth. The reverse, as described by GCV#2277, presents a finely executed head of Aphrodite facing right, her hair elegantly rolled, adorned with a necklace and earring. While the specific engraver remains anonymous, the artistry reflects the high skill of the die-sinkers at the Leukan mint, who captured the goddess's serene expression and intricate details with considerable finesse.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this stater weighs 8.3 grams, consistent with the prevailing Corinthian weight standard for this denomination. For grading purposes, critical high-points on the obverse include Pegasos's wing tips, chest, and hindquarters. On the reverse, the highest points susceptible to wear are Aphrodite's hair roll, forehead, nose, and the details of her necklace and earring. A superior strike would exhibit full detail on both sides, with Pegasos's musculature clearly defined and Aphrodite's facial features and coiffure sharply rendered, although minor flan imperfections or slight off-centering are common for issues of this period.