© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Æ Hemidrachm 211 BC - 208 BC
| Bronze | 3.97 g | 18 mm |
| Issuer | Brettii (Bruttium) |
|---|---|
| Period | Second Punic War (218 BC - 203 BC) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 211 BC - 208 BC |
| Value | Hemidrachm (½) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 3.97 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#366373 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Zeus driving galloping biga left; below, symbol : bunch of grapes, torch, owl, bucranium; in exergue, ΒΡΕΤΤΙΩΝ.
Script: Latin
Lettering: ΒΡΕΤΤΙΩΝ
Interesting fact
The Æ Hemidrachm coin from Brettii (Bruttium) was used as a form of currency during the 3rd century BC, and its design features a unique combination of Greek and indigenous Italian elements. On one side, the coin bears the image of a mythical creature known as a "chimera," which is a blend of a lion, goat, and serpent. On the other side, the coin features the image of a man-headed bull, which was a symbol of the ancient Italian tribe known as the Bruttii. This blending of cultural influences reflects the rich cultural diversity of the region and highlights the complex history of coinage in ancient Italy.
