Chalkon (380 BC - 340 BC) front Chalkon (380 BC - 340 BC) back
Chalkon (380 BC - 340 BC) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Chalkon 380 BC - 340 BC

 
Bronze 1.36 g 10 mm
Description
Issuer
Iasos (Caria)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
380 BC - 340 BC
Value
Chalkon (1⁄48)
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Bronze
Weight
1.36 g
Diameter
10 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#400636
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Prawn above large scallop shell; Ι - Α on either side.

Script: Greek

Lettering: Ι - Α

Comment

Ashton 2007, p. 54, 1-2; pl. 7, 20-21.

Interesting fact

The Chalkon coin features a unique design on its obverse side, depicting a helmeted head of the Greek goddess Athena, while the reverse side shows a quadripartite incuse square with a central dot. This design was a common feature of ancient Greek coins, and it's believed to have been used to prevent counterfeiting. The coin's small weight of 1.36 grams also makes it a notable example of ancient coinage, as many coins from this time period were much heavier.