IONIA. Uncertain Mint. Fourree 1/24 Stater (0.41 gms), ca. 625-600 B.C. NGC AU, Strike: 3/5 Surface: 2/5. Core Visible. cf. Traite-I, 237 (for prototype). Obverse: Raised swastika pattern; Reverse: Irregular incuse punch. As long as there has been money, there have been those who sought out counterfeiting. Such is the case here, as this early fractional issue is the work of a forger who hoped to pass it off as an official product composed of gold and silver. Instead, this example is merely plated, as is evident from its base metal core exposed in spots.
