CNG 96, Lot: 485. Estimate $750. Sold for $3005. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

KINGS of LYDIA. temp. Ardys – Alyattes. Circa 630s-564/53 BC. EL Hekte – Sixth Stater (9mm, 2.35 g). Sardes mint. Head of roaring lion right, sun with no rays on forehead / Two incuse squares. Weidauer Group XVII, 108 var. (same punches; obv. with inscription). VF. Well centered and struck.

Although this piece does not bear an inscription on the obverse, by virtue of the punch links, it is an issue contemporary with the series signed WALWET.

Recent research (mostly forthcoming in publication, but cf. White Gold p. 20) has shown that the earliest Lydian electrum had begun before circa 630 BC, predating our traditional attribution to Alyattes. This redating affects Weidauer Groups XV, XVII, and XVIII, as well as the lion paw fractions and boar head coins that Spier linked to the early Lydian coinage (see the following lot).