Tetartemorion

Historical Context: This silver Tetartemorion was issued by the Achaemenid Empire between 400 and 332 BC, a tumultuous period covering the reigns of Artaxerxes II to Darius III. This late imperial phase saw significant internal strife and growing external pressures, culminating in Alexander's conquest. Issuing such minute fractional denominations, weighing just 0.18 grams, highlights the Achaemenid monetary system's sophistication, facilitating daily transactions across its vast territories despite the empire's decline.

Artistry: Engravers for Achaemenid coinage remain unknown, but this Tetartemorion adheres to the distinctive "Persian Royal Type" stylistic school. The obverse, despite its minuscule 5.5 mm diameter, typically shows a simplified Great King or hero-king, often in a kneeling-running stance, holding a bow and spear. Intricate details are frequently omitted or stylized due to the extremely small flan, focusing on iconic imperial symbols. The reverse is commonly an incuse punch or left blank, characteristic of such fractional issues.

Technical/Grading: As an extremely diminutive coin, the Tetartemorion presents significant challenges in striking and preservation. High-points for the obverse design—such as the king's head, bow, and extremities—are frequently weakly struck or off-flan due to irregular flans and manual striking. Its minute weight of 0.18 grams and tiny 5.5 mm diameter make them highly susceptible to wear, damage, and degradation. A well-centered strike with discernible features, even partial, is considered exceptional for this challenging denomination.