Coin, Ionia, Miletos
Stater - 600-546 BC - Very rare - EF(40-45) - Electrum
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Lion reclining left, head reverted, within rectangular frame divided into smaller rectangular compartments.
Three ornamental incuse punches, the left of which is a square punch containing a stellate pattern, the centre a rectangular punch containing a quadruped running to left (here upwards) and an ornament, the right a second square punch containing a geometric pattern
Definitely, a very rare example and always popular type of early leonine art on coinage
13.99 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.