Tetartemorion

Historical Context: This Kolophonian tetartemorion dates to a turbulent period (450-410 BC) for the Ionian city-state, nestled on the Aegean coast. A prominent member of the Delian League, Kolophon experienced fluctuating degrees of Athenian hegemony, punctuated by oligarchic rule and brief independence. The denomination, a minute silver fraction (1/16th of an obol), underscores its role in local market transactions and daily commerce, reflecting the economic exigencies of the era.

Artistry: Given its diminutive size (7mm), attribution to a specific engraver is unfeasible; however, the piece exemplifies the Early to High Classical Greek style prevalent in Ionia. Kolophon's coinage consistently features the forepart of a horse, a nod to the city's famed cavalry and equestrian traditions. On this tetartemorion, the horse's head is rendered with a compact, yet recognizable, classicism, emphasizing essential features despite the restricted flan. The reverse typically presents a simple incuse square or a small, often abstract, device.

Technical/Grading: Grading this 0.3-gram silver tetartemorion hinges critically on strike quality and centering. High-points for evaluation include the completeness and clarity of the horse's forepart—specifically the eye, ear, mane, and musculature of the neck. Due to the tiny flan, off-center strikes are common, often truncating the design. Exceptional specimens will exhibit a full, well-struck horse on a centered flan, with minimal wear to the highest relief areas, particularly the mane and muzzle.