-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 51896
Checkout
The Metapontum AR Stater from Leukania, dated between 330 and 280 B.C., stands as a remarkable specimen of ancient Greek coinage, reflecting the wealth and agricultural prosperity of Metapontum, a city renowned for its fertile lands. Metapontum, situated in the rich agricultural region of southern Italy, was famous for its extensive wheat fields, which played a central role in the city's economy and cultural identity. The coinage from this city provides valuable insights into the socio-economic conditions and religious sentiments of its inhabitants during the Hellenistic period.
This particular AR Stater features a sophisticated design, with the obverse depicting the head of Demeter, the Greek goddess of agriculture, grains, and the fertility of the earth. This portrayal not only signifies the city's agricultural dependence but also denotes a deep reverence for divine protection over their crops and harvests. Demeter's image is finely detailed, highlighting the artistry and technical skill of Metapontum's coin minters. The reverse of the coin is equally significant, showcasing a single, meticulously engraved wheat ear along with the inscription of the city's name, symbolizing the community's main economic activity and its importance to their survival and prosperity.
Graded by NGC as Choice Very Fine (ChVF), this stater exhibits a high degree of preservation with clear and visible details, a testament to the coin's careful handling over millennia. The grade implies slight wear on the highest points of the design but retains most of the intricate details and overall aesthetics of the coin. For collectors and historians, such preservation is invaluable as it provides a clearer understanding of the artistic conventions and engraving techniques employed during this era.
The coin is encapsulated in a protective holder, safeguarding it from environmental elements and potential handling damage while maintaining its integrity for educational and display purposes. This packaging is crucial not only for preservation but also for enhancing the coin’s presentation, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate both sides of the coin without direct contact. The holder usually includes details about the coin’s grade, authenticity, and specific attributes, which are essential for both academic study and collectors' assessments.
The mintage of these staters was integral to Metapontum's economic system, facilitating trade and commerce both within the city and with neighboring regions. Coins like this stater served not only as a medium of exchange but also as a tool for propagating the city's image and economic status. The presence of Demeter and the wheat ear symbolized a promise of prosperity and divine favor, themes that were likely reassuring to both the citizens and their trading partners.
In summary, the Metapontum AR Stater from Leukania is more than just an ancient monetary artifact; it is a rich historical document that offers a glimpse into the past lives of a community deeply tied to the rhythms of nature. The depiction of Demeter and the wheat ear encapsulates the essence of Metapontum's existence, highlighting the cultural and economic significance of agriculture in ancient Greek society. For modern collectors and historians, this coin not only represents a piece of ancient art but also serves as a connection to the ancient world’s complexities and its enduring legacies.