© Classical Numismatic Gallery
© Classical Numismatic Gallery
¼ Æ Obol 480 BC - 440 BC
| Bronze | 38 g | 40 mm |
| Issuer | Olbia (Skythia) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 480 BC - 440 BC |
| Value | ¼ Obol (1⁄24) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 38 g |
| Diameter | 40 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Cast |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#348819 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Four-spoked wheel; magistrate name in angles.
Script: Greek
Lettering: Π-A-Y-Σ
Translation: PAUS
Comment
The cast series of Olbia has a close resemblance to the Italian Aes Grave both of whose function was to provide denominations in bronze at its intrinsic value. The theoretical ratio of silver to bronze in Italy before 217 BC was about 1:144 and this would presumably have been much the same in the Black Sea region.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features the image of a mythical creature called the "Gryphon", which is a hybrid creature with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle. This coin is one of the earliest known depictions of the Gryphon in ancient Greek art.