Trihemibol

Historical Context: This silver Trihemibol originates from Lampsakos, a strategically vital Greek city-state situated on the Hellespont in Mysia, Asia Minor, during the early Classical period (500-450 BC). As a significant trading port, Lampsakos issued a diverse range of coinage to facilitate its bustling commerce. This fractional denomination played a crucial role in local transactions, reflecting the economic prosperity and self-governance of the polis amidst a dynamic geopolitical landscape marked by the nascent rise of Greek power and the ongoing conflicts with the Persian Empire.

Artistry: While the specific engraver remains anonymous, this Trihemibol exemplifies the early Classical stylistic school, characterized by a move towards greater naturalism while retaining elements of Archaic formality. The obverse prominently features the forepart of a winged horse, Pegasus, facing right—a ubiquitous and iconic emblem for Lampsakos, possibly alluding to its maritime connections or mythical origins. The reverse typically presents a simple, quadripartite incuse square, a common feature on early Greek fractional issues, demonstrating a functional rather than decorative approach to the secondary side due to the coin's small module.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a diminutive flan of 10.0 mm and weighing 1.13 gg, this Trihemibol presents inherent challenges in its production and preservation. Key high-points for evaluation include the definition of Pegasus's wing feathers and the details of its head and mane. Due to the small size and manual striking process, off-centering is frequently observed. A strong strike would ensure clear impressions of the incuse square on the reverse, indicating a well-preserved die and careful striking. The silver quality is generally high, though surface imperfections from circulation are common for such utilitarian coinage.