Croesus Silver 1/3 Stater NGC Extremely Fine

This Lydian 1/3rd silver stater was issued by King Croesus sometime around 560 B.C and has been preserved very nicely over the past 2,600 years. It is known to be the first true silver coinage ever issued and is very desirable as a result. The obverse shows an image of a lion and bull, representing strength and fertility. The reverse employs a double-incuse punch that happened when the coin was struck so long ago. This particular example has a lot of flash and luster for the assigned grade--many survivors have been heavily corroded and worn over the years. The silver staters of Croesus were issued in six different sizes ranging from a full stater down to a tiny 1/24th stater. Coin shown is the exact coin you will receive. Coinage of King Croesus is listed in the 100 Greatest Ancient coins book as #9/100.