Tetradrachm Samobor B Type

Historical Context: This Tetradrachm, identified as a Samobor B Type, originates from East Noricum during the Late Iron Age, spanning approximately 200 BC to 1 BC. Issued by indigenous Celtic tribes, these silver coins served as crucial instruments of economic exchange and expressions of tribal sovereignty in a region increasingly influenced by Roman expansion. The absence of a specific named ruler underscores the decentralized, proto-state nature of these Celtic polities, whose coinage reflects a complex interplay of local identity and broader Mediterranean economic currents.

Artistry: While the specific engraver remains anonymous, typical for Celtic issues, the Samobor B Type exemplifies the distinctive Celtic artistic interpretation of Hellenistic prototypes. This particular series often features a highly stylized head on the obverse, frequently a degenerate laureate bust, demonstrating a deliberate abstraction of classical forms. The reverse typically depicts a dynamic, often fragmented horse, characterized by bold lines and a sense of movement, reflecting a unique indigenous aesthetic that transformed foreign models into distinctly Celtic expressions.

Technical/Grading: Struck on an irregular silver flan weighing 11.31 gg and measuring 23 mm, the technical execution of this Tetradrachm is characteristic of Celtic minting. High-points for wear assessment include the prominent features of the stylized head—such as the eye, nose, and hair elements—and the musculature and mane of the reverse horse. Variability in strike pressure and centering is common, and a full, even strike across both dies, particularly on the more intricate design elements, would command a premium in grading.