Tetradrachm

Historical Context: This Tetradrachm was issued by the Dacians of Banat during the Late La Tène period (300-201 BC), an era of significant cultural and economic evolution. These silver issues reflect the growing sophistication and power of Dacian tribal confederations. Their coinage facilitated extensive trade with Hellenistic and Roman entities, demonstrating a robust regional economy and strategic adoption of foreign systems, while asserting a distinct Dacian identity.

Artistry: The engraver remains anonymous, typical for tribal coinage. Stylistically, this Tetradrachm belongs to the Celtic-Dacian school, heavily imitating Macedonian prototypes like Philip II or Alexander III. Dacian renditions are renowned for their highly stylized and often abstract interpretations. The typical design features a stylized obverse head, likely a reimagined Zeus or Herakles with exaggerated features, and a reverse depicting a horse and rider or chariot, frequently rendered with dynamic, geometric abstraction, reflecting local sensibilities.

Technical/Grading: With a weight of 13.64 grams and a diameter of 25 millimeters, this silver Tetradrachm exhibits typical specifications. Key high-points susceptible to wear include the hair and facial features on the obverse, and the horse's mane, musculature, and the rider's head on the reverse. Technical strike quality varies; common characteristics include off-center strikes, irregular flan shapes, and inconsistent strike pressure leading to flatness. Examination of die cracks, metal quality, and planchet preparation is crucial for accurate grading.