© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
1 Didrachm Beast series: facing left 501 BC - 450 BC
| Silver | 10.62 g | 23 mm |
| Issuer | Populonia (Etruria) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 501 BC - 450 BC |
| Value | 1 Didrachm = 2 Drachms |
| Currency | Drachm (circa 550-450 BC) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 10.62 g |
| Diameter | 23 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#179264 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Blank (uniface).
Edge
Plain
Comment
There has been much controversy on dating Etruscan coins, and as such, the date ranges my vary per source.The Beast series was struck using Populonia's first silver standard.
Interesting fact
The Didrachm coin from Populonia (Etruria) features a unique design on its reverse side, depicting a facing left image of a mythical creature, known as a "Beast," which is believed to represent a lion or a panther. This design was a common motif in Etruscan art and symbolized strength, power, and protection. The use of this image on the coin may have been intended to convey the wealth and influence of the city of Populonia, which was an important center of trade and commerce in ancient Etruria.
