Stater

Historical Context: This silver stater, issued by the Greek colony of Poseidonia in Magna Graecia between 520 and 500 BC, exemplifies the economic and cultural dynamism of the Archaic period. As a prominent trading city founded by Sybaris on the Tyrrhenian coast, Poseidonia’s coinage was crucial for commerce and asserting its distinct identity. The era saw significant inter-city trade and political shifts in southern Italy, with cities like Poseidonia leveraging their maritime connections. This stater represents the city's prosperity and its allegiance to its patron deity, Poseidon, during a foundational phase of Greek colonial power.

Artistry: While no individual engraver is identified, this stater belongs to the early Archaic stylistic school, characterized by robust, somewhat rigid forms. The obverse prominently features Poseidon, the city's namesake, striding right, his chlamys draped over his shoulders, powerfully brandishing a trident. His extended left arm balances the dynamic pose. The reverse presents the identical design in incuse, a unique and sophisticated minting technique prevalent among Achaean colonies in Magna Graecia, demonstrating advanced die-making and a distinctive regional numismatic tradition.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a broad 29mm flan at a weight of 7.52 grams, consistent with the Achaean standard, this stater’s technical quality is often impressive. High-points for wear or strike weakness typically include Poseidon’s head, the tip of his trident, and the folds of his chlamys. A well-struck example will exhibit sharp detail on the obverse and a clear, fully rendered incuse image on the reverse, indicating precise die alignment. Centering can vary, but a full rendering of the god and his attributes within the flan is highly desirable for optimal grade.