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This attractive Greek gold coin is a stater/daric that is of a type that was first minted by Darius I, who was a monarch of the Persian empire. The coin seen here dates circa 485-450 B.C., and was minted by the successors of Darius I, who were Xerxes and Artaxerxes I. This coin may have been minted by Xerxes in order to help finance his invasion of Greece, circa 480 B.C. This coin is 8.4 gms, and is in about extremely fine condition with mint lustre. The obverse shows the bearded Great King running right, and is holding a spear and bow, which is symbolic of Darius bringing strength and justice to the Persian empire. The reverse has an incuse punch, which remained on this coinage for over 50 years. This piece is well centered, and has the full figure and the bow seen within the flan, and is better than most examples. The dies are classified in Carradice as Type IIIb, group A/B, and is a scarce type. Ex: Private CA. collection. I certify that this piece is authentic as to date, culture, and condition:
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