Stater

Emittente Gortyna
Anno 330 BC - 270 BC
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valore Silver Stater (3)
Valuta Drachm
Composizione Silver
Peso 11.22 g
Diametro
Spessore
Forma Round (irregular)
Tecnica Hammered
Orientamento
Incisore/i
In circolazione fino al
Riferimento/i SvoronosCr#74 var., BMC Greek#27
Descrizione del dritto Europa, semi-nude, seated facing in plane tree, raising her veil with her right hand and, with her left, holding eagle with spread wings in her lap
Scrittura del dritto
Legenda del dritto
Descrizione del rovescio Bull standing to left, head turned back to right to ward off a fly from his left rear hoof
Scrittura del rovescio
Legenda del rovescio
Bordo
Zecca
Tiratura ND (330 BC - 270 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 4414363860
Informazioni aggiuntive

Historical Context: This silver Stater, minted by the prominent Cretan city-state of Gortyna between 330 BC and 270 BC, dates to the Late Classical to early Hellenistic period. Following Alexander the Great's conquests, Gortyna maintained significant autonomy and economic strength. The issuance of substantial silver coinage underscores its prosperity, likely from agriculture and strategic trade. These high-value coins circulated widely, affirming Gortyna's independent status and regional influence within the Aegean's complex political landscape.

Artistry: While the engraver remains anonymous, this Stater embodies the artistic conventions of the Late Classical to early Hellenistic period. Gortynian coinage is renowned for its naturalistic yet idealized depictions, frequently illustrating mythological themes central to the city's identity. The stylistic school favored a blend of classical harmony with emerging dynamism, striving for greater anatomical realism and expressive forms. Cretan mints often imbued these broader trends with a distinctive, powerful local character.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 11.22 grams, this Stater closely adheres to the established Rhodian or Aeginetan weight standards of its era, indicating precise minting. High-points, typically prominent features like faces, musculature, or intricate drapery, are critical for assessing wear. A superior strike is characterized by sharp, full details and excellent centering, ensuring the entire design is clearly impressed within the flan. Technical qualities like crispness, minimal die wear, and absence of significant flan imperfections are vital indicators of the coin's original production and preservation.

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