© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Didrachm 500 BC - 450 BC
| Silver | 8 g | 19 mm |
| Issuer | Velia (Lucania) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 465 BC - 440 BC |
| Value | Didrachm (2) |
| Currency | Phocaean/Campanian Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 8 g |
| Diameter | 19 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#384748 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Head of nymph Hyele right; YEΛH or VEΛH usually below.
Script: Greek
Lettering: VEΛH
Interesting fact
The Didrachm coin from Velia (Lucania) is interesting because it features a unique combination of Greek and indigenous influences in its design. The obverse side of the coin depicts a lion's head, which is a common motif in ancient Greek coinage, while the reverse side features a horseman, which is a symbol associated with the indigenous people of Lucania. This blending of cultural influences reflects the diverse history and cultural exchange that occurred in the region during that time period.
