© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Æ Litra 317 BC - 311 BC
| Bronze | 10.34 g | - |
| Issuer | Messana (Sicily) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 317 BC - 311 BC |
| Value | 1 Litra |
| Currency | Litra |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 10.34 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#393768 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Charioteer, holding goad in extended right hand, reins in left, driving biga right; ME-ΣΣANIΩN above.
Script: Greek
Lettering: ME-ΣΣANIΩN
Comment
Unpublished, but cf. Caltabiano 783-786 for obverse die.
This reverse type, with the charioteer holding a goad rather than palm branch, is otherwise unknown. However, the obverse die link with the first die of Caltabiano’s Series XVIII, suggests it is a transitional issue at the beginning of this series.
Interesting fact
The Æ Litra coin from Messana (Sicily) was used as a form of currency during the Hellenistic period, and its design features a mythological creature called the "Sicilian Nymph". This creature is depicted on the coin as a woman with the body of a bird, symbolizing the island's rich agricultural and natural resources. The coin's design also includes an inscription that reads "MESSANA", indicating its origin and authenticity.
