Fontanille Coins
Auction 84 7 April 2016
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Yehud obol struck 360-355 B.C.E. in Jerusalem (GBC 1057a) 0.48 g.
Even if GBC 1057 is a relatively 'common' Yehud coin type, I have been truly amazed to see this coin. In an article published 8 years ago*, I show how, in the very beginning of the striking process, a severe die clash occurred, leaving the negative shape of the reverse die deeply embedded on the obverse (http://www.menorahcoinproject.org/yhd-08.htm). This rounded shape under the head of the Persian king is visible on all the coins from this type (121 specimens are listed to date).
On October 5th 2004 however, for the first time, an example appeared on the market with no trace of the die clash (Archaeological Center 34 No. 3). This unique coin would become the plate coin of GBC 1057a. 12 years after, a 2nd specimen is found: This one.
Only 2 coins with no trace of die clash vs. 121 coins struck with the clashed dies, it means that the clash happened after only 1.5% of coins struck.
* Extreme Degradation and Damage on Yehud Coin Dies (Israel Numismatic Research Vol. 3 (2008) pp. 29-44).
Est. $1,000-1,500
Even if GBC 1057 is a relatively 'common' Yehud coin type, I have been truly amazed to see this coin. In an article published 8 years ago*, I show how, in the very beginning of the striking process, a severe die clash occurred, leaving the negative shape of the reverse die deeply embedded on the obverse (http://www.menorahcoinproject.org/yhd-08.htm). This rounded shape under the head of the Persian king is visible on all the coins from this type (121 specimens are listed to date).
On October 5th 2004 however, for the first time, an example appeared on the market with no trace of the die clash (Archaeological Center 34 No. 3). This unique coin would become the plate coin of GBC 1057a. 12 years after, a 2nd specimen is found: This one.
Only 2 coins with no trace of die clash vs. 121 coins struck with the clashed dies, it means that the clash happened after only 1.5% of coins struck.
* Extreme Degradation and Damage on Yehud Coin Dies (Israel Numismatic Research Vol. 3 (2008) pp. 29-44).
Est. $1,000-1,500