Veneti, Namnetes, Statère à la croix
2nd-1st century BC - Electrum - VF(30-35)
Profile to the right, with Apollonian traits, with four beaded cords around it, two emerging from the forehead and two from the nape of the neck, linked to small human heads. Before the forehead, a cross with a branch touching the forehead and cutting a beaded cord. Under the chin, slightly prognathic, a yoke-shaped bracket.
Androcephalic horse to right, surmounted by an charioteer holding the reins in his right hand, brandishing his left hand, fingers distinct and thumb apart. Below, a hippophoric figure, head to the right, with outstretched arms touching the horse's legs.
Stater known as ‘with hippophoric figure and cross’. Interesting die engraving in this example. The profile's forehead and chin are more prominent than on the usual engravings. Also, the charioteer's hand on the reverse differs slightly in the way that the 4 fingers are not clearly represented, but rather in the shape of a drop/leaf. Slight traces of an old plaster mould in the cracks of the edge, showing that the engraving of the type was not common and may have been of interest enough to make reproductions for study purposes.
7.11 gr
An “EF(40-45)” quality
As in numismatics it is important that the state of conservation of an item be carefully evaluated before it is offered to a discerning collector with a keen eye.
This initially obscure acronym comprising two words describing the state of conservation is explained clearly here:
Extremely Fine
This means – more prosaically – that the coin has circulated well from hand to hand and pocket to pocket but the impact on its wear remains limited: the coins retains much of its mint luster, sharp detailing and little sign of being circulated. Closer examination with the naked eye reveals minor scratches or nicks.
