561-546 BC King Croesus Lydia Silver Stater NGC Choice Very Fine

This silver stater from the ancient kingdom of Lydia represents one of the earliest examples of coinage in world history, struck during the reign of King Croesus between 561-546 BC. Croesus ruled from the capital city of Sardis and was renowned throughout the ancient world for his immense wealth, giving rise to the phrase "rich as Croesus." The Lydians are credited with inventing coinage around 650 BC, making this piece a cornerstone of numismatic history.

The obverse displays the confronted foreparts of a lion and bull, a powerful symbolic representation of strength and prosperity that became the signature design of Lydian coinage. The designs are well-struck with clear definition of the animal forms within the characteristic incuse square. The reverse features a bipartite incuse punch, a simple but effective method used by ancient mints to validate the coin's authenticity and weight.

Graded Choice Very Fine by NGC Ancients, this stater exhibits attractive dark patina with even surfaces that highlight the ancient craftsmanship. The strike shows good detail preservation typical of this grade, with the confronted animals clearly visible despite centuries of circulation. Croesus staters remain highly sought after by collectors of ancient coinage due to their historical significance as some of the world's first true coins. The coin pictured is the exact coin you will receive.