Stater

Historical Context: This silver stater, struck by the city of Issos between 390 and 385 BC, emerges from a pivotal period in Cilician history under Achaemenid Persian suzerainty. Issos, a vital trade hub, while nominally part of the Persian Empire's satrapy, often exercised considerable autonomy in internal affairs, including coinage. This era followed the King's Peace, solidifying Persian influence in Asia Minor, making these local issues important indicators of economic activity and regional identity within the broader imperial structure.

Artistry: The artistic execution reflects the pervasive influence of Greek numismatic traditions within Cilicia. Though the engraver remains anonymous, the coin belongs to a stylistic school characterized by robust naturalism and dynamic composition. Cilician staters of this period frequently depict powerful indigenous motifs, often rendered with high relief and meticulous detail. Typical designs, like a lion attacking a bull or a standing lion, convey strength and local identity through sophisticated classical techniques, emphasizing musculature and dramatic tension.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 10.54 grams and measuring 21.0 millimeters, this silver stater adheres to standard weight specifications for Cilician issues. Key high-points susceptible to wear typically include the highest relief elements such as an animal's mane or musculature, or a deity's facial features. Technical strike qualities often exhibit characteristic ancient minting practices, including potential minor off-centring, varying strike pressure impacting detail sharpness, and occasional planchet irregularities. A well-struck example shows full detail on both sides with minimal die wear.