DYNASTS OF LYCIA. Uncertain dynast, circa 480 BC. Stater (Silver, 24 mm, 9.38 g, 7 h). Ketos to left on raised round shield. Rev. Ketos to left within dotted square within incuse square. Müseler II, 25 (same dies) and 26 note (this coin cited). Rosen 708 (same dies). Extremely rare and in exceptional condition for the issue. Beautifully toned, sharply struck and very attractive. A few minor die breaks and with a small test cut on the reverse, otherwise, about extremely fine.


Similar Ketoi appear on the electrum coinage of Kyzikos (Von Fritze I, 52) and on silver coins from Halikarnassos (Roma E-Sale 35 (2017), 279, misattributed to Kindya). Given the role of the Kyzikean electrum series as a leading international trade currency, it is likely that the motive originated from the Kyzikean stater and was subsequently copied in Caria and Lycia.