© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
1 Unit Æ 18 208 BC - 207 BC
| Bronze | 5.34 g | 18 mm |
| Issuer | Arretium (Etruria) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 208 BC - 207 BC |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 5.34 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#178626 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Asian elephant with bell around its neck and letter below.
Lettering: M
Edge
Plain
Comment
This coin is typically listed as being from Arretium, but also sometimes as being from an uncertain Etruscan mint or the Chiana Valley, and is said to have been struck during the Second Punic War (218-201 BC). The meaning of the letters is uncertain; however, all coins with different letters seem to have the same diameter, so they do not differenciate denominations.
An example with letter C:
© Nomos AG
An example without a letter:
© Roma Numismatics Limited
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique blend of Etruscan and Roman elements. The obverse side of the coin depicts a portrait of a young man, believed to be a representation of the Roman goddess Jupiter, while the reverse side features a scene of a lion attacking a horse, which is a common motif in Etruscan art. This blending of cultural influences reflects the complex history of the region and the cultural exchange that took place between the Etruscans and the Romans during this time period.