Stater

Historical Context: This silver stater was issued by the prosperous city of Soloi in Cilicia between 410 and 375 BC. During this late Classical period, Soloi, though within the Achaemenid Persian Empire, enjoyed significant autonomy, leveraging its strategic coastal location for extensive trade. The issuance of such substantial silver coinage underscores Soloi's economic vitality and its integral role in the broader Mediterranean economy, interacting with both Greek and Persian spheres. These civic issues were crucial for commerce and asserting municipal identity.

Artistry: While the engraver's name remains unrecorded, the coin exemplifies the refined Late Classical Greek stylistic school. The obverse typically features a majestic head of Athena, rendered in profile, wearing an intricately detailed Attic helmet. This iconography reflects Soloi's strong Hellenic cultural ties and reverence for the goddess. The reverse commonly displays a robust bunch of grapes, symbolizing the region's agricultural wealth, accompanied by the city's ethnic inscription, SOLOI. The artistic execution demonstrates greater naturalism and expressive detail.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this stater weighs 9.80 grams and measures 19.0 millimeters, aligning with the established weight standard for staters of the era. Key high-points for wear or strike weakness on the obverse include the crest and visor of Athena's helmet and her facial features. On the reverse, the individual grapes are susceptible. A well-preserved example exhibits a sharp strike, good centering, and minimal die wear, showcasing the intricate details of both obverse and reverse designs on a generally round flan.