Coin, Lydia, Alyattes
1/3 Stater - Sardes - EF(40-45) - Electrum - SNG von
Sold
Lydia, Time of Alyattes (610-561 BC), 1/3 Stater, Sardes, EF(40-45), Electrum, SNG von Aulock:2868.
Head of roaring lion right
Two incuse square punches
A nice example of one of the earliest type coins of Ancient Greece.
4.71 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.