Æ13 (120 BC - 100 BC) front Æ13 (120 BC - 100 BC) back
Æ13 (120 BC - 100 BC) photo
© Numismatik Naumann GmbH

Æ13 120 BC - 100 BC

 
Bronze 1.79 g 13 mm
Description
Issuer
Istros (Moesia)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
120 BC - 100 BC
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Bronze
Weight
1.79 g
Diameter
13 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#194491
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Sea-eagle to left, with wings raised, clutching dolphin in its talons; legend above.

Script: Greek

Lettering: ΙΣΤΡΙ

Interesting fact

The coin features a unique combination of symbols and letters that provide insight into the culture and beliefs of the people who created it. On one side, the coin bears the image of a mythical creature known as a "griffin," which was believed to have the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle. The griffin was considered a powerful and protective symbol in ancient times, and its presence on the coin may suggest that the people of Istros believed it was a symbol of strength and prosperity. On the other side of the coin, there is an inscription in ancient Greek that reads "ISTROS," which is the name of the city-state that minted the coin. This inscription provides evidence that the coin was created by a specific community of people who were proud of their identity and wanted to express it through their currency. Overall, the coin is a fascinating artifact that offers a glimpse into the culture and beliefs of an ancient civilization, and its unique combination of symbols and letters makes it a valuable piece of history.