KINGS OF LYDIA. Kroisos. Circa 560-546 B.C. AR siglos (half stater). 5.34 gm. 16 mm. Lifetime issue. Sardes mint. Struck circa 550-546 B.C. Foreparts of bull and lion facing / Two incuse punches. Berk 23. Boston 2076. Sunrise 11. SNG Ashmolean 763. Good Very Fine; fine style; fresh surfaces with beautiful luminous iridescent toning. Rare half stater under Croesus.

Purchased from Brian Kritt for $750 in September, 2002 (with his tag).

Half staters or sigloi of Croesus are quite rare. The vast majority of this type were struck by the Persians after they conquered Lydia and are notably more stylized. The earlier Lydian half staters are rarely seen, especially in decent condition. This is a particularly nice one.