Stater

Historical Context: This silver stater was issued by Dyrrachion, a significant Greek colony of Korkyra on the Illyrian coast, during the Classical period (450-350 BC). As a vital port and trading hub, Dyrrachion's extensive coinage reflects its economic prosperity and political autonomy. These staters underpinned commerce across the Adriatic, solidifying the city's influence amidst the era's inter-polis conflicts, including the Peloponnesian War, where Dyrrachion maintained independence.

Artistry: The stater's design exemplifies Classical Greek numismatic style, with an anonymous engraver showcasing increasing naturalism. The obverse typically features a finely rendered cow suckling a calf, a potent symbol likely representing fertility or agricultural wealth. The reverse commonly displays a distinctive double stellate pattern, often within a square incuse, an emblem shared with Korkyra, possibly alluding to celestial bodies or civic symbols. The composition balances symbolic representation with aesthetic refinement.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 10.35 grams and measuring 21.0 mm, this stater conforms to established monetary standards. Key high-points for grading include the definition of the cow’s musculature, the calf’s features, and the clarity of the udders on the obverse. On the reverse, the sharpness of the double stellate pattern and the incuse square are crucial. A well-struck example exhibits strong relief and full details. Optimal strikes present full devices within the flan, preserving surface quality.