Excessively Rare Celtic Die

281, Lot: 152. Estimate $500. Sold for $3000. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

EASTERN EUROPE. The Skordoski in Syrmia. Circa 2nd century BC. FE Obverse die for striking tetradrachms (Maximum diameter: 55mm; diameter of central intaglio portion: approx. 21mm; height: 2.2mm; weight: approx. 307g). Used for striking ‘Kugelwange’ type tetradrachms (Popović Phase B, derived from issues of Philip II of Macedon). Central intaglio with a head of Zeus with prominent nose, bearded and wearing laurel wreath (largely obscured). For Kugelwange tetradrachms of similar obverse style, see Lanz 471; OTA 195; CCCBM I S133. Uncertain symbols in relief above and below central intaglio portion, presumably official control markings. Corrosion and surface chipping as to be expected, with particular roughness around upper portion of head. Extremely interesting and of the highest rarity. An excellent opportunity for the collector of Celtic.