Coin, Seleucis and Pieria, Philip I
Tetradrachm - 244-249 - Antioch - EF(40-45)
Rome mint for Antioch.
Laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right.
Eagle standing facing, head left, with wings spread, holding wreath in beak; S-C flanking body, MON VRB in exergue.
AVTOK K M IOVΛ ΦIΛIΠΠOV CЄB
ΔHMAPX ЄΞOVCIAC
12.3 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.