Tetradrachm Coppo Type

Historical Context: This Tetradrachm Coppo Type originates from West Noricum, a region of powerful Celtic tribes during the late Iron Age (200 BC - 1 BC). These coins reflect indigenous political and economic autonomy prior to Roman annexation, facilitating trade and serving as prestige objects. Minted from local silver, the Coppo Type belongs to a broader series of Celtic coinage, heavily influenced by Macedonian tetradrachms of Philip II, reinterpreted Celtically as Roman influence solidified.

Artistry: The Coppo Type exemplifies the dynamic, abstract qualities of La Tène art, the dominant stylistic school of Celtic Europe. Engravers, whose identities remain anonymous, transformed classical prototypes into highly stylized forms. The obverse typically features an abstracted human head, characterized by geometric simplification and curvilinear elements, departing from Hellenistic naturalism. The reverse frequently depicts a stylized horse, sometimes fragmented or accompanied by symbolic motifs. No engraver signatures are known, reflecting the communal nature of Celtic artistic production.

Technical/Grading: For optimal grading, clarity of the obverse head's features—eye, nose, mouth—even in their abstract rendering, is crucial. On the reverse, the completeness and definition of the stylized horse's body, legs, and any accompanying symbols (e.g., rings, pellets) are paramount. Given irregular flans and varying strike quality, a well-centered strike with full details on both sides, free from significant planchet flaws or excessive wear on highest relief points, is highly prized for this 9.05g, 22mm silver issue.