Phokis. Federal Coinage. Circa 449–447 BC. AR Triobol

Phokis. Federal Coinage. Circa 449–447 BC. AR Triobol (15 mm, 2.97 g).

Obv. Frontal bull’s head.

Rev. Φ – O – K – I. Head of Artemis right within incuse square.

Refs: Williams 213; BCD Lokris–Phokis 241.

This small but attractive coin comes from the early federal issues of Phokis, struck in the mid-5th century BC, just after the Persian Wars and at the dawn of Athens’ imperial dominance. The obverse type of a frontal bull’s head reflects both strength and sacrificial symbolism, while the reverse portrait of Artemis underscores the goddess’ cult importance within central Greece. The abbreviated ethnic Φ–O–K–I makes clear its federal origin, uniting the Phokian cities under a single coinage.

These issues, struck in good silver on the Attic weight standard, were intended to facilitate local commerce and to assert Phokian autonomy at a time when the region was increasingly drawn into the rivalries between Athens and Sparta. Their simple but bold designs represent a distinct artistic tradition within the coinages of mainland Greece.

Condition: Attractive old cabinet tone; well struck for the type.