Æ16 (200 BC - 1 BC) front Æ16 (200 BC - 1 BC) back
Æ16 (200 BC - 1 BC) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Æ16 200 BC - 1 BC

 
Bronze 4.12 g 15.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Methymna (Lesbos)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
200 BC - 1 BC
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Bronze
Weight
4.12 g
Diameter
15.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#179560
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Apollo standing left, holding patera and kithara

Script: Greek

Comment

Unpublished in the standard references.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique combination of symbols and letters that provide insight into the culture and beliefs of the people of Methymna (Lesbos) during the time period. The obverse side of the coin depicts a bearded head of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, fertility, and theater, while the reverse side shows a bunch of grapes and the letters "METH" (an abbreviation of Methymna) surrounded by a wreath. This combination of symbols suggests that the people of Methymna placed great importance on the cultivation of grapes and wine production, as well as the worship of Dionysus. Additionally, the use of the Greek alphabet on the coin indicates the strong cultural influence of Greece on the island of Lesbos during this time period.