Stater

Historical Context: This silver stater was issued by Soloi in Cilicia during 410 BC - 375 BC, a period of significant political flux. As a crucial port city, Soloi maintained substantial autonomy despite nominal Achaemenid Persian suzerainty, enabling it to mint its own coinage. These staters were vital for regional commerce, reflecting Soloi's economic strength and active participation in trade networks, asserting its civic identity amidst evolving Hellenic and Persian influences.

Artistry: The stater's artistry exemplifies the late Classical Greek style, characterized by its refined naturalism. Though the engraver is anonymous, the craftsmanship is typically of high quality. The obverse commonly features a helmeted head of Athena, rendered with dignified precision, reflecting the city's reverence. The reverse frequently depicts a bunch of grapes, symbolizing Soloi's agricultural prosperity, or a warrior, executed with dynamic detail, showcasing the city's strong Hellenic cultural ties and artistic sophistication.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this stater measures 19.0 mm and weighs 9.80 grams, adhering to the regional Persic standard. Critical high-points for wear on the obverse include Athena's helmet crest and facial features. On the reverse, individual grapes or a warrior's musculature and equipment are key indicators. A superior example will exhibit a sharp, well-centered strike on a sound flan, ensuring all intricate Classical details are fully preserved and clearly visible.