Æ Hemilitron (208 BC - 200 BC) front Æ Hemilitron (208 BC - 200 BC) back
Æ Hemilitron (208 BC - 200 BC) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Æ Hemilitron 208 BC - 200 BC

 
Bronze 6.83 g 20 mm
Description
Issuer
Gela (Sicily)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
208 BC - 200 BC
Value
Hemilitron (½)
Currency
Litra
Composition
Bronze
Weight
6.83 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#432207
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Antiphemos, nude but for helmet and cloak, standing right, holding sword in right hand, about to sacrifice ram leaping right below; ΓEΛΩIΩN and H to left.

Script: Greek

Lettering:
ΓEΛΩIΩN
H

Comment

Jenkins, Gela, Group XIVa, 555; BAR Issue 1.

Interesting fact

The Æ Hemilitron coin from Gela (Sicily) was used as a form of currency during the Hellenistic period, and its design features a unique blend of Greek and indigenous Sicilian elements. The obverse side of the coin depicts the profile of a young man, possibly representing a local Sicilian deity, while the reverse side features a stylized image of a dolphin, which was a common motif in ancient Greek coinage. This blending of cultural influences reflects the rich cultural diversity of Sicily during this time period.